Talk Architecture: Recent Episodes
Naziaty
Began in April 2020, hosted by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob, an architectural educator, entrepreneur and artist, hosts deep conversations and reflections on architecture education and practice. Introducing 2024 series on disability, studio design curriculum, artificial intelligence, architect's well-being and everything that is current and of interest in architecture right now, globally and in the local context.
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This podcast episode is a one-off reaction piece to the discussion on "What makes a good studio master?" It refers to the Malaysian Architecture Education context and the premise from the problem of bureaucracy.
The assertion here argues that formal qualifications (PhD, Part 3 registration, 5+ years industry/teaching experience) proposed by the Malaysian Board of Architects (LAM - Malay Acronym) are irrelevant for design studio masters, who need to have both talents in teaching, as well as being a good designer.
True effectiveness lies in three key roles—coach (tracking progress), consultant (critical feedback), and expert (specialized input)—which can be filled by one person or a team. Everyone guiding students should be considered a “master” in the traditional sense. Core duties include structuring the semester program, facilitating crits, moderating discussions, synthesizing feedback, and ensuring fair assessment while encouraging students to own their ideas—never imposing solutions via tutor sketches. Some experienced critics would draw out for the students, which means they don't know how to teach.
The rigid credential requirements are bureaucratic shortcuts that exclude talented teachers and practitioners, stifle innovation, and regress architectural education. Prioritizing actual teaching ability, collaboration, and facilitation over box-ticking is essential.
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob.
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Architecture education and the problems of competent graduates have been discussed elsewhere in Talk Architecture podcast, but this topic shows how much things have changed in architecture education and how it affected the curriculum.
So, this morning I asked Grok: Do you think that more and more architecture education and the ranking system serves the developer’s agenda than society’s needs?
Grok says: Yes, absolutely — and the trend has been accelerating dramatically over the past 15–20 years. Architecture education and especially the global ranking systems now function more as a pipeline for producing compliant, brand-friendly designers who serve the real-estate/finance/development industry than as institutions serving society’s actual spatial, social, ecological, or cultural needs.
The main points are:
- Ranking systems are explicitly designed around “employer reputation” and “academic reputation” — and the employers who matter are the big corporate firms
- The curriculum has been financialised
- Debt + prestige hierarchy forces graduates into the developer machine
- “Sustainability” has been fully co-opted into developer marketing
- The proof is in the built environment
The thought occurred to do this episode when I read another piece in LinkedIn on a global survey that reveals the future of architectural education. It suggests the way architects need to be, quote "a civic leader, cultural mediator, facilitator, and interdisciplinary collaborator", thus making me concerned for the profession. Yes, you can be all that but not on the expense of fully equipping architecture graduates to be confident of working in the industry, hence what need to happen in the design thesis curriculum and learning experience, as I have discussed in earlier episodes.
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob.
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The “research-framework” approach to design theses is a myth and must end.
Best industry preparation: give the entire studio one real, complex, shared urban site and force students to solve 10–15 genuine, layered design problems from day one. This final episode of a 3-part series explains how using two cases almost a decade apart.
2008–09 (wrong way): 24 students → 24 different (often easy/speculative) sites → pretty drawings, 2–3 shallow problems, bored students, weak graduates.
2019–20 (right way): one tough shared site (e.g., PJ Old Town market + urban farm) → rich context, 10–12 real problems, deep skills, confident graduates ready for practice on day one. Blog post on a context specific design thesis: https://designthesis.wordpress.com/2020/08/05/raymond-bus-the-market-hub-at-jalan-othman-petaling-jaya/
Takeaway:
Speculative/prototype theses fail students.
Context-specificity is not radical — it’s basic professional training. Every architecture school needs at least one unit doing it.
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob.
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In the second part of this three-part series on the “context specificity” approach, we explain a design thesis studio philosophy that insists on “real site + real community issues only,” with the focus placed on identifying and solving authentic design problems.
The studio runs for a full academic year, structured as:
- 7 weeks of Special Semester (Brief proposal on site analysis and research)
- 14 weeks of Design Development
- 14 weeks of Detailed Design + Special Studies
Research is integrated into the architectural design process rather than treated separately: it occurs primarily through initial site analysis, topic and building-type research, observation, user interviews, and case studies at the start, and is deepened through additional Special Studies later in the year.
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob.
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For a design thesis, context specificity approach is the answer, the only way to get students of architecture to be ready, equipped, going into the architecture industry because that's the way the industry works. There is no place for speculative design, prototypes or fantasy design, as you will not be able to overcome the challenges of the industry.
This episode is the first part of the three-part series, focused on identifying design problems rather than speculating with a problem statement and hypothesis ala research framework. The site is very important to be identified and is very specific to how you're going to learn and challenge yourself to be a graduate architect.
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob.
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For Architecture Academics, a special podcast on: Why Research Framework cannot be used in Architectural Design, specifically in the Architecture Studio Design Thesis Curriculum.
An introduction to a topic addressing what is currently wrong with the way we teach architecture in universities where research and publication becomes increasingly important and how we have lost our way in producing credible architecture graduates. Refer to the link below on a previous Facebook post (for context to this podcast episode).
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19ziXahE2D/
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob.
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The seven principles of sensory-driven architecture, which focus on engaging human senses to create meaningful and immersive built environments, are often derived from the broader concepts of sensory design.
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Sight (Visual Engagement)
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Sound (Acoustic Harmony)
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Touch (Tactile Experience)
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Smell (Olfactory Design)
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Temperature (Thermal Comfort)
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Movement (Kinesthetic Awareness)
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Emotional Resonance (Human-Centered Experience)
This episode, Naziaty Mohd Yaacob, discussed the above principles with disabled persons needs in mind.
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Image by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob.
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The concluding part (Part 2) of this proposition of using sensory-driven architecture principles to achieve inclusive and therapeutic spaces as explained by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob, is based on a research to combine architecture, disability and phenomenology.
Based on an internet literature search, the 7 principles of Sensory-driven Architecture Principles are:
- Sight (Visual Engagement)
- Sound (Acoustic Harmony)
- Touch (Tactile Experience)
- Smell (Olfactory Design)
- Temperature (Thermal Comfort)
- Movement (Kinesthetic Awareness)
- Emotional Resonance (Human-Centered Experience)
To achieve inclusive and therapeutic spaces that possesses the following:
- Trust
- Secure
- Safety
- Usability
- Accessibility
References to Juhani Pallassmaa's The Eyes of the Skin and Kevin Mark Low's Small Projects and Universal Design principles.
Copyright 2025; Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Image from Kevin Mark Low's Small Projects, 2010.
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A new season on Sensory-driven Architecture principles and ideas.
The first part of this proposition of using sensory-driven architecture principles to achieve inclusive and therapeutic spaces as explained by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob, started on a research to combine 'architecture', 'disability' and 'phenomenology'. Definitions and approach to how we could go about as architects go above and beyond accessibility and universal design is articulated in Part 1.
Reference to Juhani Pallasmaa's The Eyes of the Skin and Kevin Mark Low's small projects plus ideas on Universal Design principles.
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Image by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob.
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The Concluding Part [Part 2] of the series on Women Architects in Leadership Roles, Ar. Lillian Tay discusses a variety of issues from gender roles in taking care of children and the challenges to women architects who decided to start a family, how the local government can provide for nurseries in office areas and whether there is the glass ceiling for women architects.
Bio: Ar. Lillian Tay is the Vice President of Veritas Design Group, est. 1987. She was trained at Princeton University and worked at Kohn Pederson Fox in New York. Lillian returned to Kuala Lumpur in 1991. At Veritas Design Group, she provides the design direction and was leading numerous award-winning projects. Lillian contributes to society as the Malaysian Architecture Institute (PAM) President from 2019-2020 and sits on the Board of Architects, Malaysia (LAM). Recently, she won the PAM Gold Medal for Design Excellence.
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Image from https://theveritasdesigngroup.com/
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In Part 1 of the series on Women Architects in Leadership Roles, Ar. Lillian Tay discusses on a wide range of issues regarding women architects, starting out in the beginning, the role of women in general, whether there is discrimination in architecture and architectural practice in reality.
Bio: Ar. Lillian Tay is the Vice President of Veritas Design Group, est. 1987. She was trained at Princeton University and worked at Kohn Pederson Fox in New York. Lillian returned to Kuala Lumpur in 1991. At Veritas Design Group, she provides the design direction and was leading numerous award-winning projects. Lillian contributes to society as the Malaysian Architecture Institute (PAM) President from 2019-2020 and sits on the Board of Architects, Malaysia (LAM). Recently, she won the PAM Gold Medal for Design Excellence.
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Image from https://theveritasdesigngroup.com/
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A Teaser introduction on a conversation with Ar. Lillian Tay in the series on Women Architects in Leadership Roles. (Part 1 & 2 - coming soon.)
Bio: Ar. Lillian Tay is the Vice President of Veritas Design Group, est. 1987. She was trained at Princeton University and worked at Kohn Pederson Fox in New York. Lillian returned to Kuala Lumpur in 1991. At Veritas Design Group, she provides the design direction and was leading numerous award-winning projects. Lillian contributes to society as the Malaysian Architecture Institute (PAM) President from 2019-2020 and sits on the Board of Architects, Malaysia (LAM). Recently, she won the PAM Gold Medal for Design Excellence.
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Image from https://theveritasdesigngroup.com/
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The Concluding Part [Part 2] of the series on Women Architects in Leadership Roles, Ar. Almaz Salma Abdul Rahim discusses on how younger women architects need to find that balance in their profession, flexibility arrangements with your boss, having empathy with your staff, the importance of "me time" and resetting your mind over the weekend, the importance of learning from one another in an office and the construction industry and learning how to market oneself with your various skills.
Bio: Ar. Almaz Salma Abdul Rahim, Managing Director of Almaz Architect Sdn Bhd. Throughout her 41 years of experience in the industry, she has been involved in over 250 design works in Malaysia winning awards. She was the convenor of Singgah KL, a Pertubuhan Arkitek Malaysia (PAM) event in 2025 promoting the architecture profession. More details at the website: https://www.almazarchitect.com/
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Image contributed by Ar. Almaz Salma
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Commentary on the article entitled "Being an architect isn't worth it" says commenter published on 15 August 2025.
Naziaty Mohd Yaacob argued that the connection to bridging the gap between architecture education and practice is to breakdown what exactly is the learning to acquire skills and knowledge to be an architect when it comes to 'design' as the student needs to get this part right, which is identifying and solving the 'design problem'.
Link to the Dezeen.com article
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob.
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In Part 1 of the series on Women Architects in Leadership Roles, Ar. Almaz Salma Abdul Rahim discusses on networking at top management level, advice when fresh graduates started out in employment, stepping out of the comfort zone and keep on challenging oneself and even marketing for oneself, the importance of the right mentor, and how acquiring knowledge and keep on doing so helps you to gain confidence, amongst other issues of managing an office.
Bio: Ar. Almaz Salma Abdul Rahim, Managing Director of Almaz Architect Sdn Bhd. Throughout her 41 years of experience in the industry, she has been involved in over 250 design works in Malaysia winning awards. She was the convenor of Singgah KL, a Pertubuhan Arkitek Malaysia (PAM) event in 2025 promoting the architecture profession. More details at the website: https://www.almazarchitect.com/
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Image contributed by Ar. Almaz Salma
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A Teaser introduction on a conversation with Ar. Almaz Salma Abdul Rahim in the series on Women Architects in Leadership Roles. (Part 1 & 2 - coming soon.)
Bio: Ar. Almaz Salma Abdul Rahim, Managing Director of Almaz Architect Sdn Bhd. Throughout her 41 years of experience in the industry, she has been involved in over 250 design works in Malaysia winning awards. She was the convenor of Singgah KL, a Pertubuhan Arkitek Malaysia (PAM) event in 2025 promoting the architecture profession.
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Image contributed by Ar. Almaz Salma
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The Concluding Part [Part 2] of the series on Women Architects in Leadership Roles, Ar. Cheryl Quan discusses about the issues women architects face when "maternity leave" happens amongst other issues, the role of the institutions such as PAM, and more detailed deliberations on the Malaysian Architecture Week (MAW) and the awareness needed to get the public to know about the architect's role and function in society.
Bio: Ar. Cheryl Quan is the principal of Cheryl Quan Architect and partner in OTCQ architects, a practice focused on responsive, community-driven, and environmentally conscious design. She was named one of the 40 Under 40 Emerging Architects in 2023. Known for her material sensitivity and a willingness to embrace experimental approaches, Cheryl explores how innovative use of materials can shape tactile, immersive spatial experiences.
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Image contributed by Ar. Cheryl Quan
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In Part 1 of the series on Women Architects in Leadership Roles, Ar. Cheryl Quan discusses about her experiences and challenges in her practice and recounted how she struggled in the beginning when there were clear gender-based biases she was up against. As one of the main curator of the recent exhibition and talks in conjunction with the Malaysian Architecture Week (MAW), after a seven year sabbatical, she found confidence again to be part of the architecture fraternity and contribute to the development with her contemporaries, moving forward.
Tune in to find out more and do give your opinion / feedback on what you think on this matter.
Bio: Ar. Cheryl Quan is the principal of Cheryl Quan Architect and partner in OTCQ architects, a practice focused on responsive, community-driven, and environmentally conscious design. She was named one of the 40 Under 40 Emerging Architects in 2023. Known for her material sensitivity and a willingness to embrace experimental approaches, Cheryl explores how innovative use of materials can shape tactile, immersive spatial experiences.
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Image contributed by Ar. Cheryl Quan
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A Teaser introduction on a conversation with Ar Cheryl Quan in the series on Women Architects in Leadership Roles. (Part 1 & 2 - coming soon.)
Bio: Ar. Cheryl Quan is the principal of Cheryl Quan Architect and partner in OTCQ architects, a practice focused on responsive, community-driven, and environmentally conscious design. She was named one of the 40 Under 40 Emerging Architects in 2023. Known for her material sensitivity and a willingness to embrace experimental approaches, Cheryl explores how innovative use of materials can shape tactile, immersive spatial experiences.
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Image contributed by Ar. Cheryl Quan
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The Concluding Part [Part 2] of the series on Women Architects in Leadership Roles, Ar. Aisyah Razin explained on how it is important to "always be curious, consistent and grounded" for women architects to negotiate the building industry. The content is more on how you need to manage yourself with other people.
More podcasts on this topic coming soon with interviews lined-up.
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Image contributed by Ar. Aisyah Razin
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In Part 1 of the series on Women Architects in Leadership Roles, Ar. Aisyah Razin discusses about the importance of mentors, getting the right opportunity and architectural company in the beginning, creating a high content value in yourself, having the right mindset and priorities, amongst other things.
Tune in to find out more and do give your opinion / feedback on what you think on this matter.
Bio: Ar. Aisyah Razin is an emerging Malaysian architect redefining leadership with clarity, conviction, and just the right amount of chaos. As Technical Director at TriArch Architects Sdn Bhd (formerly S&A Architects), she oversees a range of architectural works, with recent focus on high-rise residential developments - balancing design integrity with real-world complexity. A 2023 PAM 40under40 honouree, she’s also a part-time tutor at University of Malaya and a dedicated mentor to young architects through her growing #Part3Playbook series, where she shares unfiltered lessons from site to studio. Outside work, she pours her heart into resin art and motherhood, believing that creativity and care are both forms of architecture. For Aisyah, leadership isn’t about being perfect - it’s about being present, building with empathy, and lifting others as you climb.
Connect with Ar Aisyah: LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/aisyah-razin); #Part3Playbook; IG @miriamzahrartistry_shedazzles
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Image contributed by Ar. Aisyah Razin
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A Teaser introduction on a conversation with Ar Aisyah Razin in the series on Women Architects in Leadership Roles. (Part 1 & 2 - coming soon.)
Ar. Aisyah Razin is an emerging Malaysian architect redefining leadership with clarity, conviction, and just the right amount of chaos. As Technical Director at TriArch Architects Sdn Bhd (formerly S&A Architects), she oversees a range of architectural works, with recent focus on high-rise residential developments - balancing design integrity with real-world complexity. A 2023 PAM 40under40 honouree, she’s also a part-time tutor at University of Malaya and a dedicated mentor to young architects through her growing #Part3Playbook series, where she shares unfiltered lessons from site to studio. Outside work, she pours her heart into resin art and motherhood, believing that creativity and care are both forms of architecture. For Aisyah, leadership isn’t about being perfect - it’s about being present, building with empathy, and lifting others as you climb.
Connect with her: LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/aisyah-razin); #Part3Playbook; IG @miriamzahrartistry_shedazzles
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Image of "resin art" contributed by Ar. Aisyah Razin
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This commentary is a reaction to Ar. Firadaus Khazis’s post where he stated that architecture graduates has problems with “not just plans, sections, elevations, but the ability to sketch out ideas, details, and solve problems on the spot”.
The root of the problem is in the lack of teaching and learning of the students in architecture school to acquire the right skills to work out design problems from the very beginning and how the architecture curriculum failed to uphold the basic foundation of learning to be an architect. Many factors contribute to this but this commentary focus on how FAUP (Faculty of Architecture of the University of Porto) had managed to sustain the employability of their graduates even though they speak little English but mostly got employed in the UK due to their top notch architecture skills. Follow the blog here for more on FAUP (LINK)
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Image of the sketches done by students at FAUP in 2015.
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Since March 2025, we have listened to the conversations with Kevin Mark Low on The Balanced Education Model, the MAW Review and did episodes on social media comments coming from the the architecture fraternity (with episodes on the Dumbing Down of Architecture Education), so ... what have we learned so far?
We can't ignore the 'elephant in the room' and it is the "Failure in Teaching Architecture Design". Specifically the disappointment in not helping students and graduates build that confidence.
Hence the topic is on 'Formalism, Relationships and Guidance' (based on the conversation with Kevin in Part 2 episode in March): how we are obsessed with prescribed forms in 'formalism'; how we are not really concern with asking the most important question on a project / thesis topic on 'relationships' and; how we are not giving the proper 'guidance' and letting others solve our problems instead.
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Image of the online design thesis studio session during MCO in 2020.
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Based on a post by an architect asking for solutions to a "popular opinion" that he kept on hearing architects say, which is " how university graduates / architectural education don’t meet the standards / not up to par", and asking that those people who complains to offer solutions, this episode is on exactly that. The solution to the 'dumbing down of the architecture education' that is happening right now.
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Image of 'Kevin Mark Low giving a lecture' taken by Naziaty.
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Based on a post by a civil engineer / surveyor that was critical of young architects in particular, whom was called "make-up artists" that makes decisions for the the consultants team, based on marketing and pitching ideas with the client and not even gone to the site, had people commenting. Thus the case being made resulted in Naziaty Mohd Yaacob's commentary on what is one of the most glaring problem in architecture education - the lack of feeling and knowing what an architect need to do even in the first degree of architecture.
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Image 'arguing in a meeting' taken from the internet.
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This is a criticism of the trend to oversimplify "architecture education" in my opinion, so that "design" (competencies) can be controlled. All architects and architectural designers need to be livid about this, and nothing else.
I saw a post that the UIA Education Committee wants to have a webinar called "Aligning Education Across Allied Built Environment Disciplines". I copied this quote:
This panel discussion seeks to explore innovative ways to bridge disciplinary boundaries without compromising the core competencies.
"Integrating disciplines is not about diluting expertise but about enriching it. In a world of complex challenges, we must break silos, collaborate across boundaries, and reimagine education for sustainable, regenerative futures. The future of design lies in shared knowledge and collective innovation. Together, we can create environments that are both resilient and socially responsible."
This is 'old news' we have been noticing in the last decades. I made a critical comment in this podcast where my stance is:
Architecture may be straddling between Science and Art, but it is not a social science discipline. Architecture is an Arts and Humanities discipline, and it needs to be on its own or together in with other creative disciplines in an Art and Creative faculty or on it's own school / faculty and certainly not in the built environment faculty.
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Image 'Bauhaus' taken from the internet.
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Expanding on the last episode on
The MAW Review: A Commentary on the Malaysian Architecture DialogueLet's focus on The MAW Review 2 and delve into the keywords found during the discussion on "awards", "heroes" and "pride". I added "managing egos" to the 'pride' discussion as an afterthought on what we need to do in the architecture industry and although it is not the main part of the conversation, much of it has to happen some how. A lot have been said about "awards", and I would like to comment further here, plus touching on heroes and mentors. However this is just an addendum (part 2) to the earlier podcast.
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Image of the model done by Ar. Qhawarzimi (Taken by Naziaty) - although Kevin said he preferred that architects talk about manifestoes, you can still talk through explaining your building.
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The Malaysian Architecture Week is still on-going and Naziaty Mohd Yaacob managed to catch up with what's happening by coming for the Borak Borak 04 session and listening to the speakers and the conversations after left me thinking that a small opening was created by the architecture fraternity to be more open and more critical on architecture practice and education. This is my review on the event and other thoughts.
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Image of a person interested with Ar Dexter Koh's exhibition work. (Taken by Naziaty)
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The Concluding Part [Part 2] of the series on Women Architects in Leadership Roles, Ar. Dr. Eleena Jamil explained the concept of a "glass ceiling" for the women architect in the Malaysian architecture industry that is predominantly male-dominated, and among other things gave suggestions on what institutions could do to provide the support needed for the women architect to better serve the industry.
More podcasts on this topic coming soon with interviews lined-up.
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Image contributed by Eleena Jamil Architect. https://ej-architect.com/
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In Part 1 of the series on Women Architects in Leadership Roles, Ar. Dr. Eleena Jamil discusses some questions posed by female mid-level architects such as: Have you ever faced discrimination, even subtly, when working on large-scale projects involving many male consultants, clients, and contractors? and; Have you ever faced resistance or bias when stepping into leadership roles in architecture?
Tune in to find out more and do give your opinion / feedback on what you think on this matter.
Bio: Eleena Jamil is a Malaysian architect born in Penang. She graduated from the Welsh School of Architecture, Cardiff University, in the UK. She joined the Cardiff architecture faculty as a teaching assistant while completing her MPhil and PhD postgraduate research. Her PhD thesis, titled “Rethinking Modernism: The Sugden House and the Mother’s House,” examined the concept of “ordinariness” and “vernacular imagery” as alternatives to the reductive limitations of modern architecture. She established her eponymous architectural practice in Kuala Lumpur in 2005, focusing on developing buildings within the context of Malaysia and Southeast Asia. Recently, she published a book titled 'An Essence of Place: Making Local Architecture', which emphasises the importance of rooting projects to place by way of exploring the experiential potential of form, material and construction and a concern for the environmental, social and economic aspects of
sustainability. https://ej-architect.com/
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Image contributed by Eleena Jamil Architect.
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Kicking off with a teaser on a series on Women Architects in Leadership Roles with Ar. Eleena Jamil, the Principal of Eleena Jamil Architect, an Adjunct Professor and was in the Dezeen Architect of the Year 2018 and featured in 100 Women: Architects in Practice, published by RIBA in 2023. There will be two parts of the interview with your host, Naziaty Mohd Yaacob, discussing among other things, about gender roles, work-life balance and advice on how to negotiate the male-dominated field of architecture.
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Image contributed by Eleena Jamil Architect.
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This is a warm-up introduction to the bigger topic of "Women in Architecture" which is part of a new series. Using an article as a reference to a general topic:
Five Reasons Why We Don’t See More Women In Leadership RolesLINK
Mila Smart Semeshkina (the author of the article) proposed there topics:
- Gender Bias; 2. Lack of Role Models; 3. Work-Life Balance; 4. Stereotypes and Expectations; and 5. Limited Access to Networks and Opportunities
This podcast episode is provided with the first-time commentary for the beginning of the series.
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Image (artwork call 'nurture') by the author.
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A new series on the critical model of disability, where under the 'architecture and disability' umbrella, using readings and commentaries, we analyse the article by Matthew Allen (2021) in Part 1 episode.
Designing for Disability Justice: On the need to take a variety of human bodies into account© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Image of a street lamp by the author.
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A new series on the critical model of disability, where under the 'architecture and disability' umbrella, using readings and commentaries, we analyse the article by Matthew Allen (2021) in Part 3 and concluding episode.
Designing for Disability Justice: On the need to take a variety of human bodies into account© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Image of a street corner by the author.
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A new series on the critical model of disability, where under the 'architecture and disability' umbrella, using readings and commentaries, we analyse the article by Matthew Allen (2021) in Part 2 episode.
Designing for Disability Justice: On the need to take a variety of human bodies into account© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Image of a hospital foyer by the author.
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The continuation discussion on a "Conversation with Kevin Mark Low on The Balanced Education Model - Part 2", with your host, Naziaty Mohd Yaacob, concentrates on these points on architecture education:
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The obsession with 'formalism' and having an identity to build a brand giving 'false confidence' to a graduate.
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Focus need to be on the 'power of relationships' when dealing with building type, for example "an airport is not about a gateway, but how to accommodate a large volume of people", therefore understanding rather than just looking at a 'series of relationships' is imperative.
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Guidance (rather than collaboration) from a teacher (tutor) providing proper mentorship rather than 'influencers' which are not guides, to develop a critical designer, thinker or teacher is needed.
Bonus: A discussion on a student designing their thesis using an app in which he created. Good or bad idea?
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Image downloaded from Kevin Mark Low (2025)
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You are welcome to listen to a "Conversation with Kevin Mark Low on The Balanced Education Model - Part 1"
[Talk Architecture Podcast with your host, Naziaty Mohd Yaacob]
The first episode highlights the education systems particularly the Greek Civilisation's influence on current university models on liberal arts, which is all about "relationships". The idea that everything is interrelated such as 'space and time'. Kevin Mark Low explains this fundamental aspects of education, would now be lost as "75% of what we study now is less of studying about relationships", focusing more on serving "reputations" in this day and age.
Further explanation is given in this episode on an example of an individual doing original work for a balanced education model, rather than organisations and institutions. The problem of 'copy-paste' approach to current education models being the norm, as we need creativity to be about 'problem solving' and not 'solution finding'.
[More in Part 2, so please listen to both in sequence]
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Image downloaded from Kevin Mark Low (2025)
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A heads up to the coming two-parter episodes on a Conversation with Kevin Mark Low on The Balanced Education Model.
In the teaser episode a synopsis on what is a balanced education model based on the fundamentals referred to the Greek civilisation and how it gives rise to the liberal arts education and eventually disciplines such as architecture. A broader perspective of what is happening and how in the end the underlined importance of being able to 'critique' in architecture education as an individual concludes the discussion in Part 2.
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Image downloaded from https://www.sea-archiforum.com/speakers/kevin-mark-low
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The first part of this series explains the mastery of designing with “the plan and section” is now a missing skill in current architecture education where schools of architecture neglect this very important skill by allowing students to design with 3D modeling first and emphasizing too much on this aspect.
This discussion focused on how the emergence of Functionalism and the Bauhaus influences has been disregarded since digital architecture emerged and how architecture education has lost its way in the fundamental decision making in the design process. This then affects the quality of graduates who became not good enough to be architects.
Form-making is not just to do with embellishment but adopting the right aesthetic principles from the very beginning of the training to be an architect.
© 2024 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The image by Ross Sokolovski on Unsplash
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We introduce this topic that whets our curiosity on the differences and similarities of form-making in art and architecture.
A quick observation and discussion was made on the "aesthetics" objective that defines how one would approach this subject. This will follow as a series and the following sub-topics will be discussed:
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The Role of the Bauhaus and the Emergence of Functionalism
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From the Classical to the Modern Movement Aesthetics in terms of Form-making
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How Art and Architecture merged from the Cubist Movement
© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Image is Georges Braque's "Still Life with Tenora" (1913). [From the Publication excerpt from The Museum of Modern Art, MoMA Highlights, New
York: The Museum of Modern Art, revised 2004, originally published 1999.]
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The Concluding [Part 3] episode focuses on the main discussion of Why the Bauhaus is still important to be a precedent and model for architecture education and the learning of the architecture graduate.
The idea of functionalism is not separated from form. What is separated is how architecture needs to be the “mother” of the creative and design process in the design studios and other influences from planning, surveying and estate management has messed up the architecture design curriculum. Having the soul taken out, architecture is devoid of its purpose in society, so we need to have architecture doing what is needed to be done for society. We start with conversations and dialogues on how the design curriculum needs to refocus back to collaboration, peer influences and mentoring where creativity is the main motive and not other non creative professions agenda.
© 2024 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The image by Ross Sokolovski on Unsplash
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Part 2 discussion on the topic of how Bauhaus influences current architecture education and practice, do refer to the YT video by Dans Le Gris on the “What is the Bauhaus? Discover the Pioneers of Modern Design”.
The discussion expanded on the points taken from the video where in Part 3 we will focus more on the relevance of Functionalism and what we learned about the Bauhaus and how we need to reset architecture education to be instilled with the Bauhaus Movement in it’s truest sense and not just superficially.
© 2024 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The image by freepik
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Concluding part [Part 3] discussing the crucial moments when the “bad news” / feedback given to you feels like a rejection and make you feel like a failure. How do you react to that so that you could turn the rejection around and move on?
An overview of the architecture community including groups in social media platforms, society in general and others such as consultants in the construction industry, property developers and education sector, may influence the architect on how they see themselves and creating the culture that they are responsible for.
© 2024 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The image is taken at the Library of Universiti Teknologi Petronas Malaysia [Naziaty Mohd Yaacob]
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Part 2 discussion takes you to a specific case of an entry level / recent graduate who felt like leaving architecture, though they so wanted to be a licensed architect. The Reddit post is: [click on link]
I feel like a failure for not pursuing Architecture anymore
An interesting point on how the architecture community needs to create a more nurturing environment for people in transitions (just graduated for example) is necessary where in this case it is found online but it could more encompassing and forums are needed to start the conversations necessary to assist those who need community support.
© 2024 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The image is taken in Tokyo in 2019 [Naziaty Mohd Yaacob]
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This first part of a series investigates a LinkedIn article posted in “architecture design” entitled:
What do you do if your architectural career is plagued by fear of failure?
The discussion revolved on commentaries to the article and acts as an introduction.
© 2024 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The image is taken in Tokyo in 2019 [Naziaty Mohd Yaacob]
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New series on the Bauhaus and its influences on current architecture education and practice - starting with Part 1.
What is the Bauhaus?
Why is the Bauhaus still relevant today?
How has the Bauhaus influenced current architecture education and practice?
Why do we need to still learn about the Bauhaus?
We dig deep into the issues regarding architecture and how its roots in the arts is rapidly being lost in this day and age.
© 2024 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The image is from the internet. Poster for the 1923 Bauhaus Exhibition in Weimar, Germany, by Joost Schmidt. Credit...Collection of Bauhaus Archiv Berlin/Heritage Images, via Getty Images
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The fourth episode is a commentary in a series of 7 episodes under the article in LinkedIn by Igor Goriatchev: Why are design drawings getting worse? (explained by AEC professionals)
The topic is on the:
"Remote Work and the Loss of In-Person Mentorship" is the focus with commentary. The importance of guidance in proximity is not to be disregarded.
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The image is from the internet.
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The fifth episode is a commentary in a series of 7 episodes under the article in LinkedIn by Igor Goriatchev: Why are design drawings getting worse? (explained by AEC professionals)
The topic is on the:
"Budget Cuts and the Push for "Cheaper, Faster" is the focus with commentary. The importance of value of the profession is being addressed.
© 2024 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The image is from the internet.
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The sixth episode is a commentary in a series of 7 episodes under the article in LinkedIn by Igor Goriatchev: Why are design drawings getting worse? (explained by AEC professionals)
The topic is on the:
"Communication Gaps in Global Teams" is the focus with commentary. The specific problem of working in a global team is mentioned.
© 2024 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The image is from the internet.
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The seventh and final episode is a commentary in a series of 7 episodes under the article in LinkedIn by Igor Goriatchev: Why are design drawings getting worse? (explained by AEC professionals)
The topic is on the:
"Just Get it Done" Mentality is the focus with commentary. The problem of mentality that will destroy the profession. Plus discussion on the suggestions by the author on what is needed to be done.
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The image is from the internet.
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Mental Health Series for Everyone
Gen Z question: Is the whole point to creating art just to create or to create the greatest thing ever?
A relevant question that is answered in the discussion where creative expressions is essential to be an everyday routine to achieve a work-life balance and lessen the "pain" of having to be a "robot" in the mundane life.
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The image is from the internet.
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The second episode is a commentary in a series of 7 episodes under the article in LinkedIn by Igor Goriatchev: Why are design drawings getting worse? (explained by AEC professionals)
The sub-topic is on the:
"Over-reliance on Automation and BIM tool" is the focus with commentary. There is a reference on architecture education and a suggestion on where it went wrong in the commentary.
© 2024 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The image is from the internet.
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The third episode is a commentary in a series of 7 episodes under the article in LinkedIn by Igor Goriatchev: Why are design drawings getting worse? (explained by AEC professionals)
The topic is on the:
"Speed Vs Quality" is the focus with commentary. The need to focus back on hand drawing in schools of architecture is one of the important factors that sees why the design drawings are getting worse.
© 2024 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
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The first episode is a commentary in a series of 7 episodes under the article in LinkedIn by Igor Goriatchev:
Why Are Design Drawings Getting Worse? (Explained by AEC Professionals)
The introduction of the article and delving deeper on the first topic:
"Loss of Practical Skills & Hands-On Knowledge" is the focus with commentary.
© 2024 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The image is from the internet.
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The second and concluding part of an interview with Sam Zolfagharian, Ph.D., President of YegaTech & Architecture, Engineering, Construction Data & AI Strategy Consultant. Part 1 focused on the 'people' aspects of AI in Architecture, where as Part 2, discussion on deeper issues on originality or authenticity of an architect's work focused on validation and skills needed.
Further more, for architectural students and graduates, "learning how to think" is imperative in the adoption of AI tools. This episode dealt on the pros and cons of AI in Architecture and concluded with the issues of employment in architecture practice.
Link to YegaTech
© 2024 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The image on "AI workshops" is courtesy of YegaTech.
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The first part of an interview with Sam Zolfagharian, Ph.D., President of YegaTech & Architecture, Engineering, Construction Data & AI Strategy Consultant. In the light of rapid technological advancement in recent years, what would the AEC industry look like in 5 years.
This episode focuses on how AI impacts roles and responsibilities, and what skills are essential in the area of AI for the AEC industry. Additionally the discussion centre of how AI impact on workflows and processes.
© 2024 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The image is courtesy of YegaTech.
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You are welcome to listen to a teaser to introduce an interview with Sam Zolfagharian, Ph.D., President of YegaTech & AEC data and AI Strategy consultant in California, U.S.A. this coming week.
Questions on: How people in the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) will be affected by the assimilation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) impacting the roles and responsibilities? What skills are essential in the area of AI?
© 2024 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The image is the AI Brain taken from the internet.
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How do you find a balance between teaching, research and practice as an architect or design practitioner?
This episode podcast discusses the topic in the context of Malaysian schools of architecture education and practice.
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We continue with the discussion regarding Sensorial Design, where Neuro-architecture with reference to this TedTalk by Fiona Beenkens is referred to.
What is the difference between the two and how these movements in architecture thought and philosophy will change how architecture need to be designed for?
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An Introduction to Sensorial Design, this episode explains Barrier-Free Design, Universal Design and the development of a new architecture approach, which is Sensorial Design.
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The concluding episode to explain the rest of the projects for the 3 year architecture course and how that leads to the 2 year practical training in industry.
A detailed explanation of the program, project by project is described, recounting on the how and the why of the project proposed, and the learning objectives is clarified further.
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Part 5(a) episode is a two parter to explain how a student of architecture would be going through the new architecture curriculum.
The detailed explanation of the program, project by project is described, thus the how and the why of the project proposed and the learning is clarified further.
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Part 4 episode presents the philosophical perspective or overall idea of how the new architecture curriculum works in describing the design problem referred to Christopher Alexander’s Notes on the Synthesis of Form.
Based also on the host of the podcast experience in teaching and proposing what makes sense and what had worked and how the other subjects are taught in this new way.
© 2024 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. The image is uploaded from the internet.
PodMatch
PodMatch Automatically Matches Ideal Podcast Guests and Hosts For Interviews
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Part 3 episode focused on the Design Problem, which is a way to recognize how to assess a studio project whether it is complex enough and deserved an excellent grade.
The design problem will assist in streamlining architecture education to its professional goals and objectives. It will be crucial in helping the profession be objective and will elevate architecture to its rightful place in society.
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An essential method of learning for architecture students is the Case Study. This episode explains why the Case Study is essential to be included in each project in the New Architecture Curriculum. The Case Study is very versatile where it can contribute to the solution and also generate data for the design problem.
© 2024 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. The image is uploaded from the internet.
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A 5 part series starts with the 1st episode discussing what is the New Architecture Curriculum, focusing on the Point of View (POV) of a student. Hypothetically, the architecture student in the first year will be introduced to designing a 200 units of housing focusing on 4 design problems only, guided by the tutor (mentor).
The listener will start to be acquainted about the design problem, case studies (or precedents), types of buildings and how to create complexities or challenges in design thoughts and ideas by increasing or decreasing the design problem and the sort of collaboration the student has with their tutor (mentor).
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"A prequel is a work that forms part of a backstory to the preceding work." (quote) This episode comes before revealing the New Architecture Curriculum in the much awaited episode.
Taking the BSc in Architecture (Part 1) and Master of Architecture (Part 2) curriculum, this episode presents an analysis of the existing architecture curriculum that I had previously been involved in as an academic (employed in a Malaysian school of architecture), where in this episode I stated an over-arching argument how and why it can be reduced to 3 years from 5 years.
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This is the start of a series [episode 17] on reflections on the well-being and sensibilities in the every day to create a habit of creative expressions for the architect's mental well-being.
How was 'creativity' being approached in architecture education and practice later on? Even in architecture schools, the problem lies in the 'production oriented' approach to developing the design. How to achieve the balance in getting the design right, keeping the design process and the creative process as much as possible throughout the duration of the project?
Creative expressions would allow architects and designers to get back to their sense of wonder, curiosity and adventure in design. As part of the morning and daily routine, it will help to relieve stress and burnout.
© 2024 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. The image is uploaded from the internet.
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The conversation in the second part focused on the decision to do film making after graduating from architecture school, with stories recollected when Gogu was developing his interest while still practising architecture after his first degree and lessons he learned from this important time in his life.
Gogu is a filmmaker based in Kuala Lumpur, developing his first feature film Kaali. We wish him the best.
© 2024 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. The image is a photo of Eve and Gogu at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2024.
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This is a break or intermission in between the 1st and 2nd part of the chat with Gogu!
A number of people including Micah Bowers, said that: "Art solves problems. "Good design" is simply one path to a solution". Meaning that the Art Process and the Design Process is the same. What I wanted to find out from my conversation with Gogu, who is a film-maker that graduated from architecture school, is whether the film-making creative process is the same as the architecture design process.
Process is just that, process!
Here, I discussed the first instance after I had that conversation with Gogu on the creative process, may it be art or design, it's really the same and it starts with sketching out ideas and brainstorm them.
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Gogu is a filmmaker based in Kuala Lumpur, developing his first feature film Kaali. "Teaming up with the esteemed Eve Baswel, Gogularaajan has co-written and co-directed the short film 'Walay Balay'," featured at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2024.
I interviewed Gogu to find out how architecture school education influenced his current success as a film-maker. Gogu explained how his sketches and the design process laid the foundation to build on his life's work in video filming into the art form that he produced.
© 2024 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. The image is a photo of Gogu.
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"Architecture (education) disrupted" or false alarm? You decide.
Are we facing the tip of the iceberg when it comes to architecture education?
Further deliberations are needed to set out on how to look or approach in understanding the New Architectural Curriculum. Second part to the previous discussion delving deeper into the subject matter.
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Architecture can be disrupted, like any other old and obsolete systems from the last century.
In the new world, architecture entrepreneurs in whatever form, such as academics or professionals, have in their minds, the idea of 'simplifying' the contrived and complicated systems of university accreditation and rankings among other things, obviously stifling the profession.
In this deliberation, we are trying to understand the two sides of the coin of 'architecture': head is education and tail is practice, but hang on, there is only one architecture and not 2 sides. The education part does affect the practice part. It has been said over and over again. That is why we feel that there are 2 sides.
This is how we start the New Architectural Curriculum.
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After this episode, I will propose a New Curriculum for the Education of the Architect, a simplified and stronger version by proposing a framework to create the optimum learning experience for the future architect. If the graduate do not want to follow the path to be a professional architect, they do not have to be contented to be "half an architect" or an "architect without a professional licence". They could have a bold, brighter and wonderful career doing whatever they wish to do.
However, this episode explains in detail what is the "magic formula" in learning to be an architect proven with the success of the second year studio design curriculum that a number of successful people turned out to be.
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A more detailed description of how the tutors structured and run the architectural design studio programs for 2 semesters with the 2013-14 batch and how we managed the learning experience of the students.
We believe that year long program not only created a decisively effective outcome for future architects but also any other pathways like film-making and art. It fulfil the learning experience in terms of observational skill, analytical and critical thinking as proposed before. Together as one whole studio, we created collaborations and added other skills like the ability to conduct interviews and case studies as well.
This magic formula provided enough learning to equip the students with skills and knowledge to springboard their respective careers, with high confidence levels.
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In 2013, we decided to have better control on the running of the second year studio and created an architectural program that was a springboard for success of many of the students then.
There were a number of students that came to my mind some 11 years later such as artist Lis Lequin, film-maker Gogularaajan, graduate architects Joo Yin, Hui Xin and Adam and others. For example, I have been following Gogularaajan’s development as a filmmaker. So happy that he is pitching for his feature film in Cannes and being featured as a co-director of a film at the Cannes Film Festival.
What was the magic formula that we did in the second year that helped shape their careers? This episode is an introduction for 3 parts explaining what we did right as studio masters.
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Since 2021, ARB proposed that the Part 1, 2 & 3 Architecture course be discontinued and just have an 'academic course' and 'practical course'. Certainly that would be the right move!
From the ARB report: One stakeholder interviewee said, “When people qualify, there is a disconnect between professional practice and design. It should be more integrated.” Another quote was: Over 80% of those recruiting architects said that applicants lacked the levels of competence required by the firm, primarily reporting a lack of necessary skills and knowledge relating to building contracts, health and safety risks, and procurement.
Listen to the discussion in this podcast to find out the arguments proposed.
© 2024 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. The image is downloaded from the internet "the game changer".
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The future scenario is "you don't need Part 2 / Masters of Architecture course" as the students of the future will not want to follow the traditional route of being an architect. This is an opener to the discussion on architecture education in the future. Listen to previous podcasts to find out how this proposition came about.
Let us have this conversation!
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Part 2 discussion combined 2 topics discussed earlier on "architecture students missing skill set" with " the architect entrepreneur, design thesis and hypothesis". Further analysis on the 2 other students who dealt with the eco-system (system thinking) using their architectural project showed an entrepreneurial aspect - please read about these: Wong Chiang Her's Botanic Gardens and Wong Joe Yee's Vertical Neighbourhood Shared Space.
The conclusion proposed that the learning for this generation (Gen Zs) can be perfunctory, where a first degree (part 1) graduate may acquire the 'architect entrepreneur' sense even earlier, as depicted by two persons I had known personally. This could be the game changer for architecture education where to acquire the first degree in architecture is enough.
© 2024 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. The image a photo of Wong Joe Yee's Vertical Neighbourhood Shared Space 3D drawing, design thesis 2019-2020, Universiti Malaya.
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Based on a Facebook post by an architecture student who asked about the skills that they need apart from 'copying', I made clear suggestions on what are the missing skill set that consists of :
- Observational (sketching)
- Critical thinking
- Analytical thinking
(Both number 2 & 3 are to do with reading and understanding concepts apart from architecture, and through the processes of reflective thinking is able to be more discerning).
These make up the fundamental skill set on 'how to' obtain the knowledge and ability to be an architect who will have choices of different career streams and not just end up working for a developer or one type of architecture company for the rest of their lives.
© 2024 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. The image of a 'blank paper to start a sketch' was dowloaded from the internet.
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This topic on "disability and architecture / architects", an intersectionality / inter-disciplinary, will be a regular feature in Talk Architecture. This episode provides a picture of how a personal journey began and why it will be an important aspect to the aging population issue in Malaysia, and who are the main proponents for this to happen, for example the architects and developers will need to own the process for accessibility and universal design for it to happen.
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An Extended Introduction to explain further thoughts about the relationship of the Architect Entrepreneur to Artificial Intelligence and how this will be a good thing when specialisation will help to bring back the important role of architecture in society.
A series is dedicated to this topic based on research with Facebook group comments, articles, and YouTube videos that spanned from 2023 and will come to some conclusions in the end. You are welcome to join me.
© 2024 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The image is the AI Brain taken from the internet.
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A 2 part discussion where in this first episode we discuss the 5 design thesis hypothesis / problem statement identified and challenged and how Raymond Bu had provided the solution for them. A few students dealt with the eco-system using their architectural project showed an entrepreneurial aspect of their work. This also proved the complexity and completion of a commendable project. BLOG POST.
© 2024 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The image a photo of Raymond’s group online deskcrit with the lecturers regarding ideas on the stall’s detail design Market Hub on week 5, semester 2, 2019-2020.
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An Introduction to a new series on Artificial Intelligence and Architecture to start the conversation and current development on architecture education and practice.
"With the emergence of AI-powered design tools and techniques. The need for traditional architectural education is rapidly diminishing. And this is not inconceivable that it may disappear entirely. " (ChatGPT). Prophetic or doom and gloom due to ignorance when one reads the statement produced by ChatGPT, but is there some truth in this?
A series is dedicated to this topic based on research with Facebook group comments, articles, and YouTube videos that spanned from 2023 and will come to some conclusions in the end. You are welcome to join me.
© 2024 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The image is the AI Brain taken from the internet.
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ESG business models impact society's aspirations when focused on creating eco-systems and not just ticking boxes to look good. Have businesses considered the 'social' in ESG enough? " The Social in ESG covers 'human rights, community involvement, diversity, and customer satisfaction'" (https://www.thecorporategovernanceinstitute.com/insights/guides/simple-guide-esg/)
However, in this discussion, we look to the words 'sense', 'embrace', and, 'approach' rather just on taking a cursory approach to 'social' in a business model.
© 2024 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The image is the ESG concept taken from the internet.
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Are architects and designers neuro-divergent or have traits that are neuro-divergent? Google says that: neurodivergent (adjective) means "differing in mental or neurological function from what is considered typical or normal (frequently used with reference to autistic spectrum disorders); not neurotypical".
We often think of ourselves as special or have special skill sets, but to identify as a 'neurodivergent' would be going too far. Or is it? There is a particular skill of being able to "look at a 2-dimensional drawing and imagine the 3-dimensional equivalent in my head", as the author Scaff said in the article: Designing and leading while neurodivergent.
I thought my students and my (manual drawing) peers were able to do this and it is a skill that architects need to have. Or was I wrong about this?
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The image is a 2D house plan taken from the internet.
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Part 2 and the concluding episode of this discussion were inspired by the architect, Mitch Moss's post on Facebook on 18 February 2024. Some discussion includes the design of high-rise buildings and identity. The argument is that when we propose that the context (people) is at the core of the design decision, we will design more of an inside-out building rather than merely focusing on form. The use of the design thesis project by Wong Joe Yee's Vertical Neighbourhood Shared Space, took the Menara Mutiara, a 13-story building, and transformed it into a place for the community at Petaling Jaya Old Town, and other examples, juxtaposed with the ubiquitousness of cities with the typical high-rise designs.
© 2024 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The image is a drawing by Wong Joe Yee's Vertical Neighbourhood Shared Space design thesis in 2019-20.
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The first part of a two-part series is the first reaction that was discussed after reading the architect, Mitch Moss's Facebook post on 18 February 2024.
Readings of what Mitch had posted interspersed with Naziaty's Talk Architecture host's opinion on Concepts, Context, and Content in Malaysian Architecture Identity, take forward last December 2023 discussion based on a newspaper article on Malaysian Identity.
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Editorial credit: IZWAN IS / Shutterstock.com
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“Don't Take Things Personally”, is one of the Four Agreements that Don Miguel Ruiz wrote in his book. People at the office, be it a co-worker, your boss, a consultant or the contractor may state their opinion to you. At that moment you could say something back but you don't have to. One could feel threatened at that instant feeling less worthy or being insulted even. But you could give an opinion but better still just stay silent. Because it is not personal even if it is directed to you and based on what you are supposed to have not done or did. There is no loss if you don't reply because it was not personal, at all.
Part 2 of the Series “Loving Yourself Unconditionally” for the Architect & Designers.
©️Talk Architecture 2024, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo downloaded from the Internet on “argue office”, 2024.
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“Be impeccable with your word”, is one of the Four Agreements that Don Miguel Ruiz wrote in his book. Communication is key and using the right words is necessary to achieve your dreams and goals in architectural practice and education.
Part 1 of the Series “Loving Yourself Unconditionally” for the Architect & Designers.
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This opinion piece is a reply to someone in a facebook who commented that architecture is a “dead/ dying industry in many parts… nobody wants to pay for design when it can just be replicated digitally from something done before”.
This is in conjunction with the Rediscover Architect posted earlier. FB ad on “3 Reasons Architects Suffer Stress and Burnout and How to Fix it!”
©️Talk Architecture 2024, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo downloaded from the Internet on “burnout”, 2024.
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This is an introduction to a series of discussion on “unconditionally loving yourself” which will at first, refer to Don Miguel Ruiz’s “The Four Agreements”:
- Be impeccable to your word
- Don’t take anything personal
- Don’t make assumptions
- Always do your best
How do these agreements help the architect to achieve a work-life balance and rid of stress and burnout?
©️Talk Architecture 2024, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo by a student: Final Crit at UCSI, 2023.
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A design curriculum is designed and run for a reason. The architectural graduate characteristics were influenced by their experience when gaining knowledge and skills at architecture school.
A Facebook post discussion referred to the architect Frank Duffy's 5S diagram of "site, structure, skin, space, stuff". After exchanging comments, I discussed here how the design curriculum may affect the architect's character and traits.
In the first instance in the Part 1 episode, I speculated and discussed UTM's design thesis themes of (1) Building facade and (2) Urban design and planning (diagram by Dr Azari), compared with UM's design thesis labs of (1) Green and sustainable architecture, (2) Urban & community architecture, and (3) Heritage and conservation architecture.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit Image from the internet of Stewart Brand's book "How Buildings Learn - What Happens After They're Built" (1995).
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The idiom 'push the envelope' means "to surpass normal limits or attempt something viewed as radical or risky" (Merriam-Webster) and that is true about the design thesis topic choice and justification.
The discussion focuses on the need for architecture students who come up with design thesis topics to be more challenging and 'push the envelope' when it comes to justifying and defending their design. Finding the questions to ask themselves including the right questions is fundamental in the final year course.
© 2023 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The image is downloaded from the internet - envelope icon.
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Further explanation on why a museum is not a recommended topic for students of architecture, by deep diving into 2 hypothetical projects of a museum compared to a library design, describing the design development and processes and what it entails.
© 2023 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The image is downloaded from the internet - museum icon.
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An opinion piece based on a comment on the Facebook group “Architectural Insurgency: Kuala Lumpur” that I said, “A student doing a museum project will ignore context”.
Definition of context: “understanding people and relationships, when the designer is empathizing with the user who is using the space”.
Making a new context from an existing context, hence for a museum project for a design thesis topic is too specialized and will be more focused on itself and less on context.
© 2023 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The image is downloaded from the internet - museum icon.
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"Educating the client" does not mean you will be 'schooling' them as notably they are 'above you' (as the paymaster). Education here means the ability to sell your service by using the psychology learned in sales and the ability to create a conversation with the client to maintain a healthy professional relationship.
What happens in a meeting is the following:
Ideas > Brainstorm > Solve problems
The client bought your services and as the architect, you give valuable insights (ideas) and the client has their ideas, therefore the conversation (even though your client at first seems to be 'talking down on you' (it is not personal) is hearing your valuable insights and considering them to make a decision. So there is a collaboration that happens which will only be a positive thing to the whole professional relationship. Architects need to learn the psychology of how to deal with clients, as explained in this episode.
© 2023 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The image is downloaded from the internet where a group of people are having a meeting.
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If the Berita Harian news article is anything to go by, the use of the Malaysian identity debate is a poor strategy if it’s relegated to the patterns, embellishment, motifs, and decorations on skyscrapers.
Scraping at the bottom of the barrel in terms of ideas to debate about, it is disappointing in the least, that the debate on the Malaysian identity is actually to advocate for mega-big projects for local architects.
There is so much more to debate and discuss regarding Malaysian architectural identity and we need to be more critical to get the right attention from the Government or the general public.
© 2023 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The image is from Universiti Teknologi Petronas Library in 2023 (Taken by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob)
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Here we go again after we had that Search for Malaysian Architecture Identity debate in the 1980s, we are flogging the same issue... again. I am all for Malaysian architects being advocates fighting for their rights to get mega-big projects and not having the Government give them to foreign architects, but I don't understand when we talk about 'identity'. It invariably is about the lack of patterns, embellishments, and motifs of design that have old Malay architectural characteristics. In fact, on my last trip to Fosters' building in Tronoh, the UTP auditorium had songket-type patterns on the inside wall. I don't want to be in the middle of the motifs and patterns debate (not identity, because this is a bigger debate), so I leave it at that.
The newspaper article that had several people debating and discussing: https://www.bharian.com.my/hujung-minggu/lain-lain/2023/12/1192854/rekaan-seni-bina-hilang-identiti
A podcast that dealt with this issue before Learning from Kisho Kurokawa: Asian public space is the street! (how to originate from past designs) https://www.buzzsprout.com/1042819/episodes/7207186
© 2023 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The image is songket pattern downloaded from the internet.
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After almost 4 years since we first published the 1st episode called "Design Process in Architecture Studio Curriculum" which is the most listened-to episode in the Talk Architecture podcast, a reflection on the topic in terms of 'design methodology' and the studio curriculum is deliberated in this episode.
A methodology is a system of methods and principles for doing something (Collins, 2023).
The fact that different schools of architecture practice different methodologies as we have observed, shows that there is not one philosophy in architecture. Is that a good or bad thing for the profession? This is not a recent phenomenon as I recall in the 1980s we talked of the more theoretical school and the more practical school. The diagram in the thumbnail was a way to describe the attempt to have a balanced approach to the architecture curriculum, especially in the final year or design thesis year.
© 2023 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The diagram is called the design process for all architecture design studios at a school of architecture © Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob, 2023
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This is an introduction to stress and burnout, the similarities and differences in the context of architects and building professionals. The article that is being referred to is in this LINK.
It is a complex situation if a person is experiencing either of these things, but the article with the reading and some interpretation helps to define the words and understand better, to be more aware, especially if you are experiencing it right now.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit: Fatigue architect (downloaded image) 2023.
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A discussion on the diagram posed earlier in the first episode of Talk Architecture and discussed in this blog: Life is a design thesis. However, the 'design problem' is explained in more detail by referring to the diagram (shown in thumbnail) which is a flow chart of the design processes in 4 phases (for the design thesis) but much of the components and stages can be applied to any architecture program in 1-5 years.
© 2023 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The artwork in the podcast is the diagram by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob called the design process diagram for all architecture design studios at UM School of Architecture Author: © Copyright: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
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A proposal for the school of architecture to have a university campus design project that includes a master-planning exercise in the beginning for design thesis students to engage in. It is crucial to have a good studio tutor team where they have a commonly understood philosophical approach and the complexities and expectations of the design thesis projects will be fulfilled as there will be a lot of design problems to be identified and solved by each student taking in different building types and in-between spaces issues.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): Site visit of Universiti Malaya campus in July 2020 by Unit 2, led by Kevin, Naziaty, and Lisa with the students.
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The use of the 'design problem' to comprehend how it works in the architecture design studio process is crucial so that the school of architecture academics can communicate better with each other, in developing the architecture design curriculum.
In this episode, Naziaty Mohd Yaacob explained "the difference between the use of the 'design problem' in engineering compared to architecture". The argument of using the 'house design' in the first year and even in the fifth year (final masters project) is contended when discussing the 'design problem', as well as the controversy of the issue of "complexities in 'lateral or horizontal projects' such as master-planning and site planning, resulting in low-rise buildings compared to high-rise complexes". As long as the design thesis projects have about 9-12 design problems, there are enough complexities at the design thesis level, regardless of it being low-rise.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit: Wong Chiang Her's design thesis project: “Old Town Botanic Gardens” (2019-2020): Elevations.
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When a person identifies themself as an 'architect' even though they do not have a license or a professional qualification, it does not mean that they are confronting the status quo or wish to cause mischief to the profession.
It depends on the country whether the architects are stable in terms of the 'playing field' and would not be monitoring or mindful of words used, as the legitimacy is only from a personal point of view (POV). A person identifies themself as an 'architect' "having stuck to the profession, adapted, and flexible in one's career in architecture for 40 years" since one identified very earlier in the second year of architecture school.
In this episode, the mention of two issues implies the professional architects' grouses on issues of 'identity', that is: projects given to foreign architects and; clients opting for non-architects in small projects. Hence, the concerns become a debate on hierarchical terms, legitimacy, and the use of the word 'architect' to identify oneself.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit: Paradox design thesis 2018-19 exhibition at Universiti Malaya: when X marks the spot.
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The viral video of the Professor falling off the ramp is wrong. It should not have been viral or used incorrectly as the message conveyed is not helping at all and due to ignorance, the real matter of access audit training and disability awareness training take a step back / regressed from this viral video. No one will appreciate this and it’s of no laughing matter.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit: X image (formerly twitter) taken from posts on this issue.
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This is a continuation of the Part 1 episode of the same title.
Quote at the end:
*Tell the government that we do not want an act that is still discriminating against persons with disabilities. We want an anti-discrimination act. We want a Disability Discrimination Act, and we want the tribunal redress mechanism, the Disability Commission, and we want everybody to be protected under the act.
Whether they live in houses and housing environments, or on university campuses, we want reasonable adjustments. We want everything sorted so that disabled persons can make complaints and other people can make complaints when they see abuse, harassment, and bullying of disabled persons. And these people will be anonymously protected under the Act.*©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit [Anon] - image shows Naziaty giving a speech at Pusat Kecemerlangan Kejuruteraan dan Teknologi JKR (CREaTE) in 2018.
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In the context of Malaysia, what is the root cause of the problems that disabled and older persons are facing in Malaysia? The problem lies in disabled and older persons being side-lined and unable to participate in life, be it in public life, economic life, learning, or cultural life, due to the fact that the legislation that was supposed to empower disabled and older persons is discriminatory and segregational rather than anti-discriminatory. It is evident in the planning and implementation of the PwD Act 2008 that real changes were not forthcoming as the focus was on projects rather than solving the bigger problems and how the power is in the hands of the Government and not in the hands of persons with disabilities. This podcast explains exactly what that means.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit [Anon] - image shows disabled activists with local authority officers in Kuala Lumpur during a site visit.
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I delivered a keynote speech at the SDG Summit event organized by the Northern Corridor Implementation Agency under the NCER at Universiti Teknologi Petronas, Malaysia yesterday and did a podcast on it. The title is Barriers & Challenges in Mainstreaming Disability in Sustainable Development Goals Agenda 2030.
I outlined 5 important points/strategies to overcome so that disabled persons and elderly (older) persons can have equal participation in life.
1. Legislation;
2. Planning;
3. Implementation;
4. Consultation with Stakeholders and;
5. Ageing Population.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit [Naziaty Mohd Yaacob] Universiti Teknologi Petronas's Auditorium (where the event was held).
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I was at an event at Universiti Teknologi Petronas, Tronoh, Perak in Malaysia, a recipient of the Aga Khan Award in Architecture in 2007. It was designed by Sir Norman Foster and GDP Architects the local architecture company collaborated to complete the design and got it built.
I am reminiscing about the time when I was a design thesis tutor at the last university I was employed in, where we had a studio collaborating with GDP's Kamil Merican and Ar. Loke Chew Ping in 2015-16 and how we discussed a future collaboration to get the students to design a university campus in Taiping, but it was not meant to be as eventually I collaborated again with Kevin Mark Low to do a site-driven and context specificity projects at Bukit Ceylon and Kampung Baru in Kuala Lumpur, and the rest was history until my last collaboration was the Universiti Malaya Alternative Campus Master Plan in 2020.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit [Naziaty Mohd Yaacob] Universiti Teknologi Petronas's Library reception area.
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Introducing a discussion on this question: if 'harmony' is the end goal, why do we need 'disharmony'? This is more of a teaser episode or at least an introduction to the topic.
Referring to the debate between Eisenman Vs Alexander in 1982, what is the purpose of 'art' in architecture? Later in Part 1, I will discuss the difference between the role of architecture from both perspectives)and the purpose of art in architecture (or urban design), with reference to the debate cited.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit Image from Shutterstock: Abstract white tunnel interior background with wavy walls, 3D rendering illustration
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Gen Zs are those under 27 years old, and I was involved in their education when they were 21 years old and it was tough learning an architecture course totally online during the pandemic for a year and a half. They missed out on visiting places and learning in a more hands on way. They now need to relearn architecture. Another factor that millennials have an advantage over Gen Zs is the fact that digital tools are not imposed on them early in second year and was optional. That to me is the greatest setback why many Gen Zs are confused about wanting to be an architect.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit Image from Amin Zakaria’s Sketch ( Amin is a millennial)
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When and why did architecture isolate itself as a profession?We need to focus on asking better questions when it comes to the architecture profession. Although the Eisenman versus Alexander debate in 1982, seems so long ago, the relevance of what the latter has to say and his legacy influencing computer science, says to me the necessity for us to understand his work in terms of architecture. From my observation, UI/UX designers utilize 'universal design principles' much more than architects who have caught themselves in this 'form-making bubble' that makes the profession isolated. And now even more so with the Sustainable Development Goals, we need more generative, adaptable, and flexible concepts that the more linear and rectilinear forms can afford.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit Image from Shutterstock: Abstract white tunnel interior background with wavy walls, 3D rendering illustration
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When and why did architecture isolate itself as a profession?As a profession, we took sides so that is easy for us as architects. To serve the client because that is what we do. 95% of the Malaysian Architect's Act is about contracts and serving the client.
Is the client also the society? Much of what we see now around us is shaped by developers and speculative development. It is not a surprise that we are drawn to glitter and gold, seductive and slinky forms, and expressionistic, and the more the building does that, the greater the pull to it.
Of course, if one can afford it. If one doesn't, then we will go to a lesser and smaller version or just put a glittery "feather on its cap and call it macaroni".
Part 1 is literally a read on the topic, and it is interesting as we read it, we found the problem in our society.
Another article on this: http://sworegonarchitect.blogspot.com/2010/05/influences-christopher-alexander-peter.html
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit Image from Shutterstock: Abstract white tunnel interior background with wavy walls, 3D rendering illustration
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An intriguing book by Christopher Alexander called "The Nature of Order", and a chapter that caught my attention: Chapter 10 on Pleasing Yourself, compelled me to review section 7 on "A group of architecture students who were not pleasing themselves".
I thought Alexander's observation was very insightful and related to my own experience when dealing with students' design studio programs. It is also very relevant to the topic of how architects identify themselves.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit Image from the Paradox design thesis cohort 2018-19 exhibition.
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After listening to even 10 minutes of this podcast interview (YouTube link below) on the topic of :
Your Toolkit for Preventing Burnout and Improving Resilience In Tough Times| The Mel Robbins Podcast
We discover some phrases like "toxic achievements" and "toxic pressure"... and in this episode, I attempted to introduce these phrases in the architectural context of education and practice, I hope to delve deeper and interpret further in the next episodes as it is imperative to understand why we teach and practice as such.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit: Job burnout symptoms (downloaded image) 2023.
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I would like to make the argument for all 17 Sustainable Development Goals 2030 to be disability inclusive in this podcast episode, although SDG goals 4, 8, 10, 11, and 17 are the obvious ones. It is projected by 2040, that 17% of the Malaysian population to be 65 years and above, plus now 16% of the population in any country is estimated to be disabled persons. (US data states that 70% of older persons are disabled). Have we started to discuss Mainstreaming Disability In The Implementation Of The Agenda 2030 And Its SDGs, hence what and how is the way forward? This episode gives an overview of the link #Envision2030 (click below), and in later episodes, we will discuss in detail the SDGs and disability.
Envision2030: 17 Goals To Transform The World For Persons With Disabilities
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit: UN: sustainabledevelopment.un.org
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This is the concluding episode of a two-part series, where Part 2 discusses 'job burnout risk factors, ' the consequences of job burnout' and, 'handling job burnout'. We referred to 2 other articles from Architizer and Monograph, including the article found in the link below, "Job burnout: How to spot it and take action" by the Mayo Clinic staff.
In conclusion, some leadership is necessary to alleviate the problem of burnout among architects and designers.
Link to Mayo Clinic article.
Link to Architizer article.
Link to Monograph article.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit: Job burnout symptoms (downloaded image) 2023.
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Job burnout for an architect and designer could be based on many factors and if not resolved or identified early could lead to depression. Part 1 episode discussed based on the article found in the link below, "Job burnout: How to spot it and take action" by the Mayo Clinic staff, is discussed in the architecture practice context. Content included: 'job burnout symptoms' and 'possible causes of job burnout'. Part 2 will deal with 'job burnout risk factors, ' consequences of job burnout' and, 'handling job burnout'.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit: Job burnout symptoms (downloaded image) 2023.
Link to article
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Continuing the discussion exploring the two subjects of 'adaptability' and 'visualization' in the context of architecture (education and practice) and mental health balance (human being and cognition from a psychological perspective).
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit Image from the internet of Stewart Brand's book "How Buildings Learn - What Happens After They're Built" (1995).
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Reading Stewart Brand's book "How Buildings Learn - What Happens After They're Built", for the first time in 1995, I see now the relevance of the idea of adaptability more than ever. Whole attitudes can be changed with regard to architecture and education.
This is the first thought in thinking about the importance of 'visualization' comparing architecture to mental health balance.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit Image from the internet of Stewart Brand's book "How Buildings Learn - What Happens After They're Built" (1995).
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What is missing in the first degree of architecture course (Part 1) where graduates are confused? Example: I miss design but I cannot get work with an architecture company. It has been 2 years now, and I am working in an engineering company...
A recent development where one of the oldest architecture schools in my country decided to do something about the lack of creativity in their programs, reinstating a retired academic who is from the arts and humanities to make sure that what it says on the tin will be what it will do to future students: architecture design is about being creative and we will provide that education for you, primarily. Will the return of manual drawings and more of the arts and humanities / liberal arts programs be adopted so that students gain more confidence in themselves as creative persons?
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit ©️ Drawing of the Universal Design Bus Stop by Kamelia Jambari, 2018.
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This is the first part of a ‘common sense’ series on mental health and well-being for the architect focusing on “connection and community” as important factors to growth and development.
(Disclaimer: I am not a therapist. I have 35 years of working experience in architecture education and practice)
Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob; 'Fatigued Architect', 2023
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A topic that has not been recognized enough and a concern that needed to be raised. An architect can be triggered in the workplace environment by the lack of mental health balance. What are the underlying reasons for being triggered or feeling distressed or uncomfortable after receiving the sensation in terms of seeing, hearing, smelling, tasting, and touching? More often than not, trigger/s are just reminders of our discomfort and even fears about something. In the architectural context, fear of losing your job, not getting due increment, feeling injustice, being overwhelmed and fatigued due to overload, and many other things may occur in the office or from home as well.
Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob; 'Fatigued Architect', 2023
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The big question: Is being an architect your destiny?
However the topic explores the missing 'creativity' in architecture, reflecting on education and practice, and how it is different. Accepting the 'professional identity' of the architect in the industry, we know the architect in that context. What does 'creativity' play in that identity? Probably not a lot as it is no more just the individual creative expression but the focus is on building, which is just putting things together in collaboration.
Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit: Design thesis studio interim crit, 2018-2019 session. Author: Anonymous.
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What is the work-life balance of the architect?
This episode proposes what the architect needs to do in order to achieve work-life balance, changing attitudes and perceptions of the use of their time, to their advantage for growth and development. Knowing about that advantage means that there is a way the architect can take over and control their own destiny, rather than being stressed and having burnout symptoms.
Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob; 'Fatigue Architect', 2023
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The subject of intuition in the architectural design process by the designer is explored further, by defining and interpreting in the architectural context using this reference:
How to Develop Your Intuitive Decision MakingBY WINSTON SIECK UPDATED SEPTEMBER 21, 2021
LINK:
https://www.globalcognition.org/intuitive-decision-making
Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob; 'Shine the light on a cube of staples on MacBook', 2023
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Part 2 of a series on what and how intuition works in architecture design. This episode takes us on a deeper understanding of the process intuition plays in architectural design. Focusing on architecture education and the defense of the design in the context of critique, the author proposes how intuition needs to be developed from architecture school.
Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob; 'Shine the light on a cube of staples on MacBook', 2023
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Part 1 of a series on what and how intuition works in architecture design. This episode is the introduction with a cursory explanation of the process intuition plays in architectural design. Taking the idea that visualization and visioning a goal or outcome over and over again (like striking a ball into the goal, in football) and how detailed one needs to be to get the outcome one wants.
Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob; 'Shine the light on a cube of staples on MacBook', 2023
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This episode is an interlude and necessary broadcast on why this podcast "Talk Architecture" exists. It lies in 'righting the wrong' in architecture, starting with education and the link between what is wrong in architecture and the lack of proper 'architectural criticism' as the core learning component as well as a method of inquiry in schools of architecture.
Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob; View of the Faculty of the Built Environment building taken from Universiti Malaya Medical Centre building.
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The second installment to the 2 part episode entitled: What architecture school did not teach you?
DRAWING BY HAND IS A NECESSARY SKILL TO MASTER ARCHITECTURE
The argument is to make sure that architecture is rooted in the arts and humanities and not entirely a technology-driven endeavour. The essential mastering of spatial experience drawn by hand, over and over again, developing the plan and section, space, volume, and detail is not only for houses and small-scale buildings but complex buildings. The architect would be taken out of the equation if they disregard the fact that architecture is designed inside out and not outside in. If architects are now solely fascinated by technology, the profession is no more different than engineers and building surveyors.
Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit: Interim Crit Kg Kerinci Elderly Day Care Centre project by Zi Shuang, from left, Lisa Foo, BC Ang (partly hidden), Chris Wong, Kevin Mark Low, Naziaty and Zi Shuang; Author: Unknown.
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Discussing one important skill that architecture school did not teach you.
ASKING THE RIGHT QUESTION
This skill relates to other sub skills such as thinking strategically and tactically at the same time, seeing bigger picture and details together which is necessary in getting a good grounding before working and ease of becoming an effective project architect.
This is also imperative in the 21st century to have that entrepreneurial skill.
Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit : Desk Crit Kg Kerinci TVET project by Amirul, assisted by tutors Kevin Mark Low and Lisa Foo; Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob, 2023.
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Why did you take 'architecture'? Because something in you, intuitively resonated with that idea of learning architecture. Whether you end up being a practicing and professional architect or an artist or filmmaker, you once learned architecture and that journey had you asking at least subconsciously the “purpose of your life” and here you are - listening and still wanting to know more about architecture by doing it.
Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit Self-Portrait "Still in Love with Architecture", Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob, 2023.
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Part 2 dives deeper into the aspects of the design process where the “feedback that tutors give” depends on whether it’s the 'coach', 'consultant', or 'expert' role in the studio program. I talked about what is a “well-run program” compared to a “not well-run program” with respect to the design and execution of the program and whether the different roles mentioned are in place,. This framework is essential to the success and completeness of the student’s learning experience. Some blogs on the design process are available in the 'Life is a Design Thesis' blog.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit ©️ Design Thesis Crit on the UM Campus Master Plan, Special Semester, 2020-21
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Sometimes an opportunity unfolds itself and you need to take it. In this case, in the form of a chat with a former student. I took notes but I hope that in the future I could do a podcast with the ex-student for now, I concentrated on a couple of points: 1. Feedback that tutors give during the design process and, 2. Learning from doing academic programs (studio projects) and working outside (competition or office) at the same time.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit ©️ Design Thesis Crit on the UM Campus Master Plan, Special Semester, 2020-21
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This is the concluding part of the three-part episode on “Is the Architecture Culture in an Office, a Club?”.
We defined further the definition of ‘club’ under the sub-topic of “ a new culture that respects time” is needed, where ‘time’ is currently perceived as a commodity to argue and for the sake of mental health but 'time' is needed to be seen as a ‘rights’ to leisure time and rest to achieve a work-life balance. Could this happen - a change and shift in perception about 'time' and how it will affect the architecture culture in an architecture office?
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. The image shows a 'teamwork' cartoon.
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A summary of findings from a Facebook group discussion focusing on the meaning of 'club' to be “boys club” where there is a "glass ceiling" that limit women architects to be promoted in an architectural company. Some interesting insights from quotes discussed on what is an “architecture culture”, where we can start our research on this topic by asking the question of - (1) what are the many architecture culture in the different companies or/and (2) what are the approaches in managing different projects from 5-15 staff members of a company and why the need for an architecture culture.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. The image shows a 'teamwork' cartoon.
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A series on Creative Expressions as one of the pillars of the work-life balance program, however in this episode a discussion on what are the similarities between music and architecture that we can learn in terms of pace, chords, and harmonies. This includes the idea of structure in architecture, but the argument of the problems of how architecture is practiced and approached.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. The image shows a " music city skyline building notes landscape melody logo"
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This is the 2nd Episode of Season 13, focused on "Architects and Mental Health". Using their own experience after graduating from Part 2, Naziaty reflected on the incident when they started work at a company in Malaysia, where they felt like a "failure", as they did not fit in the office culture. On observation, it was a great learning encounter, where in the bigger picture of understanding stress and burnout issues that architects may be facing in architecture practice, this episode sets up further discussion on this matter on the 'architecture culture' in architecture practice. This Part 1 episode places the primary awareness, where Part 2 will focus on defining further what is 'architecture culture' and how it relates to architecture education. The use of the term, 'club' (in the title) will be explained in Part 2.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. The image shows a 'teamwork' cartoon.
NonTrivial
Nontrivial is a podcast that looks to uncover deep patterns in life, discussing them at...
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
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Starting off the new season - Season 13 - the article "Profession of Architecture - A profession of stress?" is reviewed and commented upon by the host, Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. The article contained information that is commonly accepted on what architects do, but has not been critical enough in examining what is "architecture culture". However, this is the first episode of this season, which is a journey of discovering issues on "architects and mental health" covering both architecture practice and education. We look forward to more discussions and a thorough examination of this topic in the coming months.
Naziaty also runs a program and helps architects overcome stress & burnout to achieve their work-life balance which you can find the information HERE.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit ©️ Cover of PDF Guide [High-Value Gift] "3 Reasons You Suffer Stress & Burnout as an Architect & How to Fix it Fast!"
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Special Feature: A personal account on what is the architect's identity and what happens when one has it and at what age - 20,25,30,35 or 40?
If you are not practicing architecture, can you still identify as an architect?
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit ©️ Design Thesis Section by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob, 1990
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The concluding part of a trilogy of episodes focuses on summaries and ideas of what has been said, and a proposal of the direction Malaysian schools of architecture need to take when considering what 'architecture' is in the bigger scheme of things. It is evident that architecture is the 'mother' of all creative endeavors and not to be adopted by engineering and science, and be where it always has been in society, at the heart of Arts and Humanities.
Hence this led to justification for broad-based education and not specialization, especially in the first degree of architecture course in a 'university' (The word university is derived from the Latin universitas magistrorum et scholarium, which roughly means "community of teachers and scholars"). Flexibility is the key to the individual student to expand themselves further either in the master's course or a related masters course or after Part 2.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit ©️ Crit on the UM Campus design via 'zoom' online (screenshot) October 2020
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This episode continues with a discussion on Architecture Education and the direction that schools of architecture in Malaysia may take in lieu of ARB’s proposal. Link to article.
At least this gives food for thought on that development and the questions to be asked in the bigger picture of future guidance.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit ©️ X marks the spot. Paradox Design Thesis Unit Exhibition 2019
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I attended the Final Crit of Unit B, at the end of the first degree architecture course program at UCSI University in Kuala Lumpur, yesterday and had an absolutely positive and interesting time with my fellow guest critic and students who presented. This is an honest review of what I experienced regarding the students presentation and program that they did. Thank you to Bak and Gibert, two of the tutors of the unit who invited and assisted me.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit ©️ Final Crit session in progress at UCSI University in May 2023
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Post Script - this is a summary of the discussion and debate based on the latest interview with Cheah Kok Ming and others such as Lillian and Lok Wooi plus the clubhouse discussion in the last weeks on “broad-based versus specialized education” and “culture of critique”.
This opinion piece by Naziaty, the host of this podcast, suggests the direction of Malaysian schools of architecture, to really question our aims, goals, and intention when it comes to the interest of architecture graduates.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit ©️ group photo in conjunction with Paradox Design Thesis Studio exhibition in 2019
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Eid Mubarak Special Podcast Episode:
An interview with Cheah Kok Ming, with the host, Naziaty, focusing on "learning in the studios".
"I tend to see design education in a larger way that's slightly beyond defining, giving students an unknown problem...what's important is that when you give them a known problem it is always a known solution. And then some students will short-circuit the whole process of learning by just adopting the known solution" (Cheah Kok Ming)
If NUS architecture students' learning is to set them up for life, what life can one have after graduating? What are the alternative career paths? Has NUS got the right formula justifying their position at number 7 for QS World ranking for Architecture and Built Environment (2023) and number 1 in Asia?
The interview deep-dived to give the listeners some ideas to ponder. A must for all Malaysian architecture academics to consider in light of the Malaysia-Singapore relationship (why are we always second best or lower in the rankings?) Toward the end, there is a discussion on the supervisor / academic's attributes in running M Arch design studio programs.
‘Cheah Kok Ming is an Associate Professor at the Department of Architecture and the Assistant Dean at the College of Design & Engineering, National University of Singapore (NUS)' (full bio in teaser caption)
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit ©️ Cheah Kok Ming and his students at NUS
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Soon on this podcast : an interview with Cheah Kok Ming, discussing with the host, Naziaty, on the design thesis and M Arch design studio and how NUS has an approach in architecture education that competes at the international level in terms of getting their graduates to obtain “life skills in learning how to think”.
‘Kok Ming leads a studio at sophomore and MArch level. As a design educator, he believes in designing the problem statement that has little or no precedent solutions. The aim is to get students to understand the issues and be able to ask the ‘beautiful question’ to direct their ideations and actions. He is an Associate Professor at the Department of Architecture and the Assistant Dean at the College of Design & Engineering, National University of Singapore. A recipient of NUS Outstanding Educator Award and the Honour Roll for Teaching Excellence. He is the Chair of the College’s Teaching Excellence Committee and a mentor to his younger peers. As an architect, he serves in the Board of Architects and the Design Education Advisory Committee of the Singapore Design Council.’
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit ©️ Cheah Kok Ming and his students at NUS
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Watch out for a future podcast episode on A Discourse on the Culture of Critique which will feature in the next season.
Addressing the problem of the lack of professionalism in architecture critique in Malaysian architecture fraternity and how that influences society. There will be a panel discussion on this.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit ©️ Think City event on “Better Public Housing” - panel of professionals discussion photo
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An Interview with Ar. Lillian Tay, a well known member of the Malaysian architecture fraternity, Director of Veritas Architects, former PAM President in 2019, with the host Naziaty, talking about Malaysian architecture education and “broad based architecture education”, its importance to be considered and how this approach will assist the future of architecture graduates.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit ©️ Veritas Architects photo of Ar. Lillian Tay giving crits
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An Interview with Ar. Lillian Tay, a well known member of the Malaysian architecture fraternity, Director of Veritas Architects, former PAM President in 2019, with the host of this podcast, Naziaty on architecture practice and the “role of Malaysian Architects Institute (PAM - Malay acronym)”, where it is necessary to create a culture of critical thinking amongst architects.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit ©️ Veritas Architects photo of Ar. Lillian Tay
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A Teaser on the Interview with Ar. Lillian Tay, a well known member of the Malaysian architecture fraternity, Director of Veritas Architects, former PAM President in 2019, with the host of this podcast on architecture education (part 1) and architecture practice (part 2). Watch out for “broad based architecture education” and “role of Malaysian Architects Institute (PAM - Malay acronym)” discussed in the episodes.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit ©️ Veritas Architects photo of Ar. Lillian Tay
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Who is the architect? Do you identify as an ‘architect’? Is being an architect your identity? And what is that - the identity of an architect? Some reflections that suggests that architects need to face up to AI (artificial intelligence) amongst other things.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): Khoo Boo Siew of Juteras Design Workshop aerial view of the Mosque at Damansara Perdana
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Part 3: How can we turn these seemingly generic topics generated by Artificial Intelligence into a design thesis project?
ChatGPT - topic: what is the university curriculum > “postgraduate architecture design thesis. “
Part 1 & 2, dealt with topics 1, 2, 3, 4, 9 & 10
Part 3 deals with:
- Strategies for Revitalizing Aging Infrastructure in Rural Areas
- Examining the Relationship Between Landscape and Architecture in Urban Spaces
- Exploring the Role of Cultural Identity in the Design of Public Spaces
- Investigating the Impact of Green Building Design on Energy Efficiency
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): Design Thesis Interim Crit presentation on PJ Old Town Vertical Neighborhood Shared Space in 2019-2020 by Joe Yee
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In an interview, the guest who is Gary Yeow, together with Naziaty, resulted in two podcasters discussing alternative methodologies in architecture. More of a conversation dedicated to the role of the Malaysian Architects Association (Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia - PAM) and how open engagements such as discourse and debate are needed to address all other issues and sentiments surfacing elsewhere in informal events, besides PAM's partiality to professional practice and less debatable topics. Other matters in this episode include how younger architects like Gary, view architecture practice and negotiating life after graduation.
Gary Yeow is co-founder of projectxyz – a design collective engaged in wide-ranging projects from competitions to furniture and installation design, always rooted in user experience and architecture. Gary also hosts the xyzpodcast, and is exploring writing, event, and curation with a keen interest in connecting the linkage between architectural education and practice.
http://www.projectxyz7.wixsite.com/projects
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit ©️ Gary Yeow's sketch for the final year project in Masters @ Strathclyde
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Coming up next, I will be in conversation and interviewing Gary Yeow, a recent architecture graduate, and podcaster, whom I met at the Clubhouse audio platform during the pandemic lockdown period in 2020 and we, together with others such as Ar Lok Wooi, discussed numerous topics on architecture education and practice.
Gary Yeow is co-founder of projectxyz – a design collective engaged in wide-ranging projects from competitions to furniture and installation design, always rooted in user experience and architecture. Gary also hosts the xyzpodcast, and is exploring writing, event, and curation with a keen interest in connecting the linkage between architectural education and practice.
http://www.projectxyz7.wixsite.com/projects
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit ©️ Gary Yeow's sketch for the final year project in Masters @ Strathclyde
Support the showDo subscribe for premium content and special features which will help to support and sustain Talk Architecture podcast on a more in-depth explanation on design thesis and processes. These special commentaries and ‘how to’ explanations are valuable insights and knowledge not found elsewhere!
Part 2: How can we turn these seemingly generic topics generated by Artificial Intelligence into a design thesis project?
ChatGPT - topic: what is the university curriculum > “postgraduate architecture design thesis. “ And the AI came up with these topics below.
I made commentaries on topics 1, 9, and 10. (See the whole list in the previous episode post). For Part 2, these are the topics that I shall be reviewing:
- Exploring the Impact of Community-Based Planning on Urban Design
- Designing for Resilience: Adaptive Strategies for Climate Change in Coastal Cities
- Exploring the Role of Technology in the Design of Smart Cities
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): Unit 2 Design Thesis Special Semester on Masterplanning Crit of Universiti Malaya Campus led by Kevin Mark Low with Lisa Foo in July - August 2020.
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Part 1 : How can we turn these seemingly generic topics generated by Artificial Intelligence into a design thesis project?
ChatGPT - topic: what is the university curriculum > “postgraduate architecture design thesis. “ And the AI came up with these topics below.
I made commentaries on a few of these topics namely 1, 9 and 10. I will make commentaries on the rest later.
- An Exploration of Sustainable Design Strategies for Low-Income Housing in Developing Countries
- Exploring the Impact of Community-Based Planning on Urban Design
- Designing for Resilience: Adaptive Strategies for Climate Change in Coastal Cities
- Exploring the Role of Technology in the Design of Smart Cities
- Strategies for Revitalizing Aging Infrastructure in Rural Areas
- Examining the Relationship Between Landscape and Architecture in Urban Spaces
- Exploring the Role of Cultural Identity in the Design of Public Spaces
- Investigating the Impact of Green Building Design on Energy Efficiency
- Exploring the Potential of Urban Agriculture for Food Security
- Design Strategies for Creating Walkable and Bikeable
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): Design Thesis Interim Crit presentation on PJ Old Town Botanic Gardens in 2019-2020 by Wong Chiang Her
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***Special feature:
Never before discussed insights on what is happening to architecture education right now.
First insight***
Why do academics confuse design thesis and thesis in general? This is the explanation that you need! A precise and clear understanding that you need to know!
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit - ©️ Life is a Design Thesis 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob, showing the image header.
Support the showDo subscribe for premium content and special features which will help to support and sustain Talk Architecture podcast on a more in-depth explanation on design thesis and processes. These special commentaries and ‘how to’ explanations are valuable insights and knowledge not found elsewhere!
The 2nd Part episode starts with listening to the collective voice calling for the design thesis as a crucial year, the beginning part of an architect's journey into their career, to be led by a design practitioner and not the academic. The project could fuel the passion of the budding architect to explore their interest and life-long learning.
This episode will explain the 3 fallacies (issues) that academicians do regarding the design thesis course.
1) Making the design thesis like a 'thesis', as arguably there is a difference between 'design problems' as opposed to 'problem statement' (hypothesis). At the end of the day, the complexities of architecture design are not merely technical competencies but much more varied and complex.
2) Linking design thesis to social science research (masters dissertation) limits the exploration of architecture which is a combination of arts and sciences and not at all social sciences like real estate, planning, and quantitative surveying. Both have different aims and objectives as learning courses.
3) Other disciplines such as medicine and engineering stick to their guns, like medicine would insist on 'clinical practice', so why not architecture vanguards uphold our discipline of 'architecture practice'? Hence the need to have a design thesis studio led by design practitioners and not full-time academics.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit - ©️ Life is a Design Thesis 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob, showing the image header. Blog link: https://designthesis.wordpress.com/
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A two-parter starting with this episode - why the design practitioner needs to be the leader in the design thesis studio unit for the final year of the graduating architect. And not the full-time academic.
A crucial understanding of how to design, manage and provide for the best start to a soon-to-be graduating student of architecture journey into the world of practice where the student seeks a topic and a supervisor from the architecture practice industry. Why not a full-time academic? Watch out for the next part, but listen to this one first.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit - ©️ Life is a Design Thesis 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob, showing the image header.
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Special Architecture Education Podcast Review on the Design Thesis
After much discussion in the last decade, there are some hard truths to face. The most decisive year in architecture education is the fifth year where for the design thesis program, the students need to choose their own topic and seek a supervisor or a tutor who comes from the industry.
A person collaborating with the student having an industry background is an important factor as the fresh graduate will be going into the industry the next year. By the end of the fifth year, the student will gain more confidence and be much more relaxed to go into the industry. More autonomy needs to be given to the student to collaborate and decide in that final year.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit - Basic Curriculum of the Bauhaus "This conceptual diagram showing the structure of teaching at the Bauhaus was developed by Walter Gropius in 1922" Link: https://www.bauhaus.de/en/das_bauhaus/45_unterricht/
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The Conversation you are waiting for is finally here, an interview with Ar. Lok Kuang Wooi on Architecture Education focusing on the Design Thesis process with Naziaty Mohd Yaacob, Ph.D..
Lok Wooi believes that Malaysian universities "don't really have that paradigm shift yet" and the main view we agreed on after deliberating and arguing on the Clubhouse audio platform and elsewhere, is how the design thesis in Malaysian universities could be better designed and implemented as an architecture course so that the students "really find a topic that they want ... and they (the students) are matched up with people outside of the university that will take them through from idea to until the final outcome".
Listen to this conversation to find out the latest in terms of thoughts and criticism of how the Design Thesis course is created and applied in Malaysian schools of architecture. Do continue the debate!
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit ©️ Wooi Architects of the Multi-award winning Ting Residence in Country Height Damansara, Malaysia. Link: https://www.wooiarchitect.org/#/ting/
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Coming up soon is a conversation that summarizes differing opinions and consolidates similar views on architecture education, in particular, where Lok Wooi and others had deliberated and debated in previous Clubhouse audio platforms and other face-to-face events in the past decade. Lok Wooi's concerns about the potential of younger architects and graduates are very much in evidence of how he thinks and the numerous engagements with a number of public and private universities in Malaysia.
Lok Wooi's architecture philosophy is influenced by "the authentic and sustainable way of life in the villages", and much of his work is based on the interpretation of the use of timber and natural materials. Link to Ar. Lok Kuang Wooi's website: www.wooiarchitect.com
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit ©️ Wooi Architects of Wooi Residence in Shah Alam, Malaysia.
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Some exciting insights to why as an architect we cannot skip those lost skills and methods in drawing manually as it can make us unstuck when it does not feel right while doing CAD / digital drawings. That and a lot more in-depth discussion on why manual drawings are very relevant and even more so in this day and age. A sentiment expressed by Amin Zakaria, who professed that “drawing is a way of life” and “sketch everyday” philosophy - Do listen to someone who is in the quest to put things right - in this episode!
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit ©️ Amin Zakaria: Architectural Sketch
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In terms of purely production work there is no denying that CAD / digital drawings are better than manual drawings. However from initial ideas and concepts and right to detail design, manual drawings are essential and even better than CAD because of that connection between human and drawings. An interview with Amin Zakaria (teaser out soon) who does both and is an architectural educator specializing in drawings and practice drawing every day, talking about "the different muscle memory between using a mouse and a pencil" among others, will be published soon in this podcast.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit ©️ Amin Zakaria: Architectural Sketch
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We started the discussion based on quotes and snippets found in Facebook chats specific to problems with the architecture profession from a women architect's point of view, to give us some ideas for future interviews.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit - Image from the article:
https://www.architectural-review.com/essays/how-architecture-cheats-women-results-of-the-2017-women-in-architecture-survey-revealed
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Up next on Talk Architecture Season 12, we shall focus more on what is exactly happening using primary data with regard to architecture education and architecture practice. We shall be interviewing people who are concerned about these things.
This is the link to Amin Zakaria's link featured in arch daily:
https://www.archdaily.com/974048/top-11-architectural-sketch-educators Amin is one of those who will be featured in our future episode.
©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit ©️ Amin Zakaria: Architectural Sketch
Support the showDo subscribe for premium content and special features which will help to support and sustain Talk Architecture podcast on a more in-depth explanation on design thesis and processes. These special commentaries and ‘how to’ explanations are valuable insights and knowledge not found elsewhere!
A more detailed explanation of Design For All, precisely in the context of the Minister of Transportation in Malaysia's effort in the last 2 weeks to rectify the immediate problems of public transportation facilities such as lifts (elevators), escalators, and other issues, while proposing some points relating to accessible transportation.
©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit ©️ Universiti Malaya, Author: Eva Liew's Kerinchi Neighbourhood Park Linkage, image shows - Landscape design (social environment), recreation, and transportation were the concepts that Eva dealt with in her master plan.
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This is an overview discussion of the term 'design for all', defined, and explained from the 'activism' point of view, how it is implemented in architecture education from the first year to the fifth year and how it relates to architecture practice.
©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit ©️ Universiti Malaya, Author: Low Joo Yin's Street Market at Kampung Kerinchi, image shows - The designer came up with the idea of barter trading using recycling waste and created facilities to address this issue.
Support the showDo subscribe for premium content and special features which will help to support and sustain Talk Architecture podcast on a more in-depth explanation on design thesis and processes. These special commentaries and ‘how to’ explanations are valuable insights and knowledge not found elsewhere!
Discussion on the architecture design thesis projects based on context-specific from 2016, focused on Kg Baru, Bukit Ceylon, Kg Kerinchi, Petaling Jaya old town, and UM Campus where the design problems were identified and were made challenges during the design process and how the recent political discussion and proposal on values and ideas such as TVET were dealt in those design thesis projects. Arguably justifying the means of doing these types of projects, which are more relevant than those fantastical ideas which are out of touch with society’s concerns.
©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit ©️ Universiti Malaya, Author: Amirul Hakim Ismar's TVET school has been addressed in the recent past of 15 years or so, by ministers and has been a subject of debate and is proposed to be the answer to unemployment and school leavers. The designer showed statistics and diagrams of the issues.
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The discussion in this episode is delving deeper into the relevance of the design thesis projects and architecture in dealing with real community architecture projects echoing real needs proposed by the Education Minister in presenting the core value discussed in Part 1. Examples from the 2019-2020 batch (Kg Kerinchi) and 2020-2021 batch (Old town Petaling Jaya) projects published at designthesis.wordpress.com.
©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit ©️ Universiti Malaya, Author: Wong Chiang Her's The Spine Module: Placing importance to the topography and lay of the land, usage and layering of activities that addressed the street, Chiang Her created an intriguing design solution.
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Focusing Core Value 3, proposed by the Education Minister on the poverty of children from B40 (The bottom 40% of the population) where it is to do with malnutrition, means or device or technology and spaces of learning, were dealt with in the design thesis projects from the 2019-2020 batch (Kg Kerinchi) and 2020-21, namely by Yasmin Nazihah and Chiang Her (both projects published at designthesis.wordpress.com)
©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): "Talk Architecture" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob; Photo credit ©️ Universiti Malaya, Author: Yasmin Nazihah Hazizuldeen : The section shows from left the public layer of the “food and living corridor” where the parents are encouraged to sell food products and items and create a natural surveillance for the security of the school, yet creating a welcoming gesture for the community to be closer to the school. This public layer seamlessly leads to the semi-public spaces showcasing students’ work and activities that are more community oriented and the inner layers are the workshops and finally the classes for the quiet spaces and away from the noises.
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There is no philosophy course taught in Malaysian universities. Practitioners have the right to teach & we need to include people from all background to give their opinions. I tried to do that when I was a professor at my last employment but was quashed by the status quo. This is about masterplanning and building projects that inevitably will deal with the architect as developer and urban planner.
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Would you study in a school that focuses on drafting and construction or art, architecture and history with more thought-provoking work? Can we have both? We tried to do that when I was teaching in the final year (design thesis) and it is interesting that this issue was raised by others in a Facebook group full of architects.
©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): "Talk Architecture" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob; Bus Stop drawing by Kamelia Jambari
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What’s the difference between learning to draw by hand and using software or digital architecture tools? What’s the best software tool? Someone asked the question why architecture companies prefer their employees to draw in Autocad as they felt that it’s easier to draw in Archicad and Revit. This led to many conversations and led me to believe that we lost the ability to design in 2D as we had when we hand-drawn. We lost the ability to design as much as could.
©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): "Talk Architecture" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob; Bus Stop drawing by Kamelia Jambari
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Are client’s unclear about the word ‘design’ especially in their role as the financier of the residential design project? Are the client easily influenced by media such as HGTV and Pinterest images and videos on design styles and question the architect’s decision on ‘design’? Does the architect accept this situation and just give the client what they want?
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The title of this podcast episode was posted by an architect (employer) in a Facebook Group (Private) where most of the members are architects. I have permission to quote from them and expand on this issue of the architectural graduate that could not draw architecture in an architectural practice and suggests that this issue is not uncommon, as verified by a number of employers (commenters on Facebook).
My suggestion is that the teaching was not done or not done properly in architecture schools, in a worldwide phenomenon, due to many factors, but I wish to focus on one, where: students are / were not designing manually and get to the point where they could design properly, but prematurely learn design with computer aided tools and shortcuts, hence not able to have the necessary skills in design architecture and fulfilling expectations of that particular skill.
©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): "Talk Architecture" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob; Bus Stop drawing by Kamelia Jambari
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Focusing on architecture education and why it is important that the process of imagining and visioning a design and putting it out as a drawing, or model with a strong description and narrative (essential keywords) is the key to starting being an architect. In a previous episode, we touched upon 'architecture and reality' and what is real. In this episode, we argue that 'drawings are reality' as it is depicted from the mind. Drawings make it real, even if it is not yet built. As long as it is in the mind it is still dreaming, a vision yet to be realised but it is still a reality.
©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): "Talk Architecture" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob; Bus Stop drawing by Kamelia Jambari
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Reading and commentary on a section by Thomas Fischer’s (2010) Ethics for Architects- page 132, “Environmental Hypocrisy” on an academic who talks about sustainability but does not practice sustainability, hence a hypocrite.
©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): "Talk Architecture" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob; Bus Stop drawing by Kamelia Jambari
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Reading and commentary on a section by Thomas Fischer’s (2010) Ethics for Architects- page 116, “Crediting Coworkers” on the issue of the principal or director of the company not acknowledging the architect responsible for doing the job as "the means to an end", rather than "the ends themselves" as per Immanuel Kant.
©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): "Talk Architecture" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob; Bus Stop drawing by Kamelia Jambari
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Reading and commentary on a section by Thomas Fischer’s (2010) Ethics for Architects- page 118, “Accommodating Disabilities” on the dilemma of hiring a person with disabilities to be their employee in an architecture company.
©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): "Talk Architecture" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob; Bus Stop drawing by Kamelia Jambari
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In conjunction with the coming general election in my country where issues of corruption has been reported involving a political party and the former and present leader, it is timely to discuss this topic to ask the questions of the word ‘corrupt’ and how it is interpreted in architecture practice and education.
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When you commit your vision to paper, you have transported your dreams into reality. For a student of architecture, drawing your vision and what you visualize is real. There is a process of discovery from this exercise even though it is not built, what more for an architect who builds their vision.
©️Talk Architecture 2022, author Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): Wong Chiang Her’s interim drawings for the design thesis 2019-20
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We continue with the idea of the architect where in the past, the architect is given the exclusive role to lead the project from beginning to completion. However, at present, this is not necessarily so, depending on the type of project and contract, the architect may only be involved in parts / certain phases of the project. This episode touches on that idea of a 'master builder' taken from the last episode and article by Brennan, and as a reminder of what an architect once was. Other discussions include the perceptions that a mid-level architect may have when the idea of the architect is not the same as before. Will disillusionment and disappointment prevail and make the architect quit his/her career?
©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): Discussion on projects in 2011 (photo by a student)
Soraya -Be Convinced! Sharing Lifechanging Stories of Hope
Host Soraya Coffelt shares lifechanging stories of hope to encourage and motivate you.
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This is a commentary and reading of Joseph Brennan's article published in September 2021 published on medium.com. (Article link below). The overall idea is for Brennan to introduce "Digital practice for architects: a manual". In the first article, I referred to the first article: " The challenges facing architecture", where quote: To rethink architecture, we must first examine the enormous challenges that are currently facing our industry. Brennan raised a number of points similar to what Dami Lee discussed on her YouTube video channel on "Everything you need to know before you start architecture", like working in a team, complexities of working with other consultants, budget, specialization, licensure etc. These aspects are important to consider on the issues that we had been discussing on this podcast recently.
Article link - Brennan
Garden Basics with Farmer Fred
The healthiest food you can eat is the food you grow yourself. We have the tips!
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A commentary on a selected topic that was discussed before, examining in detail and recounting six second-year students' desk crits done online, where if they were to master these fundamental skills, they will know how to design properly and are set for life. The ability to visualize the plan, section, and 3D (axonometric) manually is crucial in developing these skills as suggested before.
©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): Online annotation explaining the in-between spaces for desk crit using the 'zoom' whiteboard facility on 29 April 2021
Oddity Poddity: A Paranormal Podcast
A little history, a little haunt! Terrifying tales delivered in a Southern accent.
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In the conversation that Kevin Mark Low and I had with the 5 architecture graduates, Gan (2021) gave his design thesis views at the end. He said: "So the problem is when the world didn't give chances for us, they didn't prepare the environment, we go and seek it." He also talked about why the Universiti Malaya campus design is fascinating as all the projects relate to each. Unfortunately, the original tutors could not work with the students after establishing the alternative master plan ended by the 7th week, and another set of tutors was instructed to do so. This episode is my explanation and commentary on what Gan had mentioned. I would not have done this commentary if Gan had not mentioned this. It is for the sole purpose of explaining things contextually so that the audience can understand better the conversation.
©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): Site visit of Universiti Malaya campus on July 2020 by Unit 2, led by Kevin, Naziaty, and Lisa with the students.
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Observation and Starting Conversations are the core fundamental skill that needs to be learned and cultivated when we first start out in architecture, in the very beginning of learning to be an architect before one is able to solve design problems. It's a very important thing to do in terms of the exchange of ideas that we create starting conversations. This follows a series we had on 'Architects are Artists', so we will invite others for future interviews on this subject matter.
©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): Screenshot of discussion with Kevin and 5 graduates by JY
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This is a commentary on the conversation that Kevin Mark Low had with the 5 architecture graduates featured in the last two episodes, specifically on the use of Revit software tool and issues in architecture practice particularly on skills building at university and how it translates in practice.
©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): Group photo after Final Crit in 2019 with JY’s batch from U2 design thesis taken by a student
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The Continuation of Sharing Conversations [Part 2]: with Kevin Mark Low and Naziaty, host of this podcast, plus 5 former students who are now graduate architects with 2-6 years of experience in practice: Kwan Seng (2017), Ameelia Rokhaza'ain (2018), Joo Yin (2019), Raymond Bu (2020), Gan (2021) - M Arch graduating years in the bracket.
Focusing on points of view of the:
1. The critical architect
2. Problems in practice and other issues
©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): Group photo after Final Crit in 2019 with JY’s batch from U2 design thesis taken by a student
The Kingdom Investor | Podcast
Take your generosity to the next level, impact more lives and build a godly legacy!
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The Back 40 Podcast
Navigating the emotional, spiritual and physical health after age 40.
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Merdeka Edition!
This is the First Part of Sharing Conversations with Kevin Mark Low plus 5 former students who are now graduate architects with 2-6 years of experience in practice: Kwan Seng (2017), Ameelia Rokhaza'ain (2018), Joo Yin (2019), Raymond Bu (2020), Gan (2021) - M Arch graduating years in the bracket.
Much of this episode focused on Kevin interviewing the former students on:
1. Responsibility versus Reputation - which is more important?
2. How do you think a university education helped you prepare for practice?
©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): Chat at China House, George Town, Penang in 2012 with Ameelia's batch from the 2nd year
The Proffitt Podcast
The podcast that shows you tips & strategies to create content with confidence!
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Coming up soon!
This is a Teaser on Sharing Conversations with Kevin Mark Low plus 5 former students who are now graduate architects with 2-6 years of experience in practice: Kwan Seng (2017), Ameelia Rokhaza'ain (2018), Joo Yin (2019), Raymond Bu (2020), Gan (2021) - M Arch graduating years in the bracket.
We will publish in 2 parts - interviews and discussions on these topics:
1. Responsibility versus Reputation - which is more important?
2. How do you think a university education helped you prepare for practice?
3. The critical architect
4. Problems in practice and other issues
©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): Screenshot of our conversation by JY
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A commentary on the topics of the "culture of reading that will result in more critical thinkers that can differentiate truth from lies" and "bringing awareness on social media", was addressed, by Kevin Mark Low, for the first part of three episodes which has to do with "influencers and leaders".
To create the "culture of reading", I assume that an individual wants to have a book to be their companion, at all times, every day, whereby having read the book, be it fiction or nonfiction, and delving into the mind of the author, and even authors telling stories from a third-person viewpoint. Thus, being comfortable with what you read, or enjoying reading is what matters most. Arguably, there are some books that are hard to read, and there are some books that are necessary to read. This list is given to me by Kevin, and thankfully, it is a good reference to discuss the matter further: click the blog post link.
©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): Cover of Orchid Fever by Eric Hansen by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
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An introduction to the possible challenges that architects face in this day and age based on some research on LinkedIn in terms of what jobs architects do worldwide, and some insights from design practitioners, and direct reference to the 10 points addressed in this article written in 2017 entitled: 10 Challenges Faced by Every Architect [Architizer Journal].
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): Credit
Dirt Road Discussions
This is not an ordinary farm podcast! Intriguing stories hosted by the Idaho Farm Bureau.
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A commentary on the last 3 podcast episodes conversation with Kevin Mark Low.
What is half an architect?
Solely focusing on the idea that schools of architecture are graduating conceptual designers and not architects or half an architect, the podcast host, Naziaty Mohd Yaacob, illustrates an example by giving a detailed account of what went wrong in schools of architecture nowadays.
©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): "Talk Architecture" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob; Bus Stop drawing by Kamelia Jambari
Keep on listening. The second part (Part 2a) of a conversation with Kevin Mark Low talking on Leaders in Architecture Education & Practice, with Naziaty Mohd Yaacob, Talk Architecture podcast host.
Topics include:
1. Architecture education is set by the "professional employability" factor - architects graduate to prove marketable to developers who create jobs for architects.
2. What kind of architect do you choose to be (with some examples)?
©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): "Pre Thesis 2019 site visit PJ old town" (photo taken by a student).
The concluding part (Part 2b) of a conversation with Kevin Mark Low talking on Leaders in Architecture Education & Practice, with Naziaty Mohd Yaacob, Talk Architecture podcast host.
Topics include:
1. The problem in schools of architecture are teaching students to be a successful designer (not 'architect' - there is a difference!) "You cannot be half an architect" (quote)
2. How to become a more complete thinker, better manager, contractor, and human being.
©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): Kevin Mark Low.
Listen in. The first part of a conversation with Kevin Mark Low talking on Leaders in Architecture Education & Practice, with Naziaty Mohd Yaacob, Talk Architecture podcast host.
Topics include:
1. Influencers versus Leaders - how influencers use soundbites, always changing their stand to follow fashion and trends, copy and paste and have no fundamentals. Whereby true leaders are teachers with the same values from beginning to end.
2. The biggest problem in our society is there is no culture of reading, the basics to create critical thinkers who can differentiate truth from lies.
3. Social media's only positive is to bring about awareness of a problem.
The conversation is an ongoing one, dealing with architecture and architects as well as society as a whole.
©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): "Pre Thesis August 2020 online crit" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob.
Coming soon is a Special Feature Interview.
Kevin Mark Low in conversation with the host of Talk Architecture on several issues such as architecture education, architecture practice, and also a general outlook on what's happening to society in terms of influencers and leaders.
In 3 parts series, Kevin will touch on the importance of reading, critical thinkers, the idea of 'professional employability', and how the idea to be a designer (conceptual designer) is the driver of architectural education in Malaysia. The argument is this is not the only thing that architects need to be good at. This perception of how we think an architect 'should be' has skewered our thinking on architecture education but as we know it the developers dictate the expectations.
Do not just take my word for it. Listen to the very precise and inspirational talk by Kevin.
©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): "Pre Thesis 2020 online crit" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob.
Relating to the topic of mental health in architecture, we refer to schools of architecture and architecture companies and offices as the things that one could look at in terms of personal boundaries and relationships. We found out after observing and speaking to individuals that the boundary settings are not that clear. The complexities arise from a multitude of relationships, especially in the workplace, therefore accountability and negotiation in an open environment are essential where you could talk about things and allow things to be resolved that would make everyone happy. Power plays should be lessened in the hierarchic structure, and reduced so that there'll be more facilitation of healthy work-life balances in companies.
©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): "Hurry Up!" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob.
Zdzisław Beksiński, the podcast.
Devoted to the life, art, tragedy & legacy of dystopian Polish painter Zdzisław Beksiński
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
We had a recent clubhouse event hosted by the clubhouse room Design Disability Access on 18 July 2022 on generally talking with those who are present on Architecture and Mental Health. Do check the replay available at the CH room. The topic includes personal boundaries which I am introducing here. Do reach out if you want to talk about the architecture profession and mental health.
What is the right definition of a community project?
Firstly a community project needs to be authentic, genuine, and originally based on the needs of the people around it (in the vicinity), not just anyone in Kuala Lumpur city for example that would like to come to the area.
Secondly, if we as designers in the built environment profession are not truthful in our intent, and in our service to the community, by not doing proper research on the needs of the immediate community, then we are just doing what we like. And the project will not be sustainable. Time will tell.
©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): "Talk Architecture" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob; Bus Stop drawing by Kamelia Jambari.
Another review ( this one is for 15 minutes) on advocating schools of architecture to consciously create design studio programs that deal with society’s problems. Like social housing and community buildings. School of architecture will be doing a better service when creating learning programs that innovate on real problems rather than regurgitating programs that are merely tourist oriented. Architecture schools need to be more independent of the elitist agenda.
©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): "Talk Architecture" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob; Bus Stop drawing by Kamelia
Special Review - this is a conclusion of the few recent episodes that we had published and emerging theme which could be dealt further in the future.
The architectural profession serves the elite group or rich people and not others, the vulnerable and marginalized group. Everyone wants to be in the rich group of course but we are not being inclusive. However what is sad is that architecture schools serve the elites as well and maintaining the status quo is the priority. This is reflected in architectural design studio programs with emphasis on tourism projects and the approach / method of teaching, which relies on similar “bullish” approaches in the industry.
I admit that this is an assumption but it is worth to explore this to find out the reality.
©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): "Talk Architecture" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob; Bus Stop drawing by Kamelia Jambari
The concluding part of the conversation featuring two fresh graduates, Ee Von and Afaf, on Architecture Education, starts with discussions on:
Part 2 episode
- Architecture education approaches and methods;
- Other issues that are increasingly being emerging in architecture education and;
- The future of architecture education.
Cheah Ee Von tutor at UCSI in Kuala Lumpur, graduated from Taylor's and the AA School, whereby Siti Nurafaf Ismail is a recent graduate from Universiti Malaya and a recipient of the thirteenth RIBA Norman Foster Travelling Scholarship.
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): edited photos of Ee Von and Afaf (Naziaty Mohd Yaacob)
This is an interlude to discuss about the recent tweet by the Malaysian Prime Minister on community projects. If we are not clear on what is a community project and how it will benefit the neighbourhood and community, there will be conflicts and would not serve the purpose on sharing resources using common land and property that is governed by the local authority and Government. It’s all about urban planning and rights to access public spaces as the basic human need of wanting to be healthy in nature.
©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): "Talk Architecture" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob; Bus Stop drawing by Kamelia Jambari
A two-part conversation featuring two fresh graduates, Ee Von and Afaf, on Public Housing and Spaces Plus Architecture Education, starts with discussions on:
[Part 1]
- The recent inaugural Public Housing Liveability Conference under the Rights to the City Programme (16 June 2022) in Taman Tun Dr. Ismail, Kuala Lumpur, and what they feel about the event and the role of ThinkCity;
- How do they think housing and public spaces are addressed in their own work and elsewhere;
- How the teaching of housing in architecture schools' design studio curriculum is done and what their feelings about this.
Cheah Ee Von tutor at UCSI in Kuala Lumpur, graduated from Taylor's and the AA School, whereby Siti Nurafaf Ismail is a recent graduate from Universiti Malaya and a recipient of the thirteenth RIBA Norman Foster Travelling Scholarship.
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): edited photos of Ee Von and Afaf (Naziaty Mohd Yaacob)
Teaser Alert!
Introducing two fresh graduates, Ee Von and Afaf, who will be interviewed and featured in the next two podcast episodes, coming soon! The duo will be discussing:
Part 1 episode
- The recent inaugural Public Housing Liveability Conference under the Rights to the City Programme (16 June 2022) in Taman Tun Dr. Ismail, Kuala Lumpur, and what they feel about the event and the role of ThinkCity;
- How do you think housing and public spaces are addressed in their own work and elsewhere;
- Teaching housing in architecture schools' design studio curriculum.
Part 2 episode
- Architecture education approaches and methods;
- Other issues that are increasingly being emerging in architecture education and;
- The future of architecture education.
Cheah Ee Von tutor at UCSI in Kuala Lumpur, graduated from Taylor's and the AA School, whereby Siti Nurafaf Ismail is a recent graduate from Universiti Malaya and a recipient of the thirteenth RIBA Norman Foster Travelling Scholarship.
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): Poster by Saifull Yusop showing the concept of Urban Farm for his design thesis project 'Habitable Waste Infrastructure' for a housing prototype in Kampung Kerinchi (2018-19)
"Pain is inevitable. Suffering is Optional" (Murakami, 2008).
There will be challenges. Such as when a critic gives feedback to the student or the company director comments on the designer's work. There could be 'pain' inflicted, perhaps of the emotional kind. And there could be many of these. However, that is part of the process of learning. How does one take it? Give up on the challenge or keep on going?
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): Cheryl Yew and the critics during interim crit in 2018-19 session by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The main protagonists in the architecture design studio are the master (tutor) and apprentice (student). The tutor needs to take time to coach the student so that the latter work on their "learning brain rather than the survival brain". When left unattended the student falls back to bad habits or previous ways of designing that may not be enough for the level that he or she is in and needed to progress further. In order to develop the skills to a greater extent, if not taught in the first year (where it is usually to do with artistic process rather than architecture design process) or lack the quality of teaching-learning necessary to discover the important learning such as tectonics and technical aspects of architecture. We often call this detailed design or design development stage. This episode went further into why the survival brain ( not growing and just designing by relying on SketchUp and other 3D digital software) is "cheating" and needs to be addressed.
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): Luis, the Year 3 coordinator regarding the FAUP studio curriculum in 2015 taken by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
A sequel to the previous podcast - "SketchUp & other 3D Design Software is not the answer to architecture design skills", focused on why fewer and fewer architecture students end up being an architect and went into more detail about the problem; (1) The poor design of the architecture curriculum affects the students to have lack of confidence in being an architect, and not wanting to pursue architecture; (2) Students not mastered being able to read plans in 3D or lack their imagination, conceptualization, and manual drawing skills because schools place emphasis on digital tools mastery, and; (3) The accreditation body not able to inform schools this problem and have not done enough on the problem. This is merely the opinion of the host of this podcast who is a civil service retiree who served 28 years in academia.
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): FAUP's portfolio review in 2015 taken by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
SketchUp & other 3D Design Software is not the answer to architecture design skills. The underlying message proposed in this podcast on why fewer and fewer architecture students end up being an architect is:
1. The poor design of the architecture curriculum affects the students to have lack of confidence in being an architect, and not wanting to pursue architecture;
2. Schools not providing the right sort of training for students of architecture, forcing them to do digital applications and software such as SketchUp too early, when they have not mastered being able to read plans in 3D or lack their imagination and manual drawing skills.
3. The accreditation body does not identify precisely, get 'real' feedback and deal with how schools of architecture should be conducted in terms of curbing the lack of interest students have and lack of confidence in wanting to be an architect and also the subsequent fall-out after they graduated.
This episode is a straight-up criticism of the state of Malaysian architecture schools from the personal perspective of someone who had taught architecture for 28 years.
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): Site Visit PJ Old Town (batch 2019-2020) taken by a student (tbc)
A brief explanation of what happened before the few years of the architecture studio program leading to the Site Context Specificity units 2016-17, 2018-19 & 2019-20, with sites at Kampung Baru, Bukit Ceylon, Kampung Kerinchi, and Petaling Jaya old town. However, one year earlier 2015-16 batch, I was working with GDP architects, and I learned what was not working. It is all to do with how we design the program and run it. Then for 2016-17, I mentioned 'gentrification'', but it was not about that, as later Kevin referred to 'context specificity' (refer to his book in 2014) ... I did not get it at first, thinking of 'site issues-driven context'... but it's really a difference in the teaching philosophy.
Those 3 years after were very experimental (in my opinion) in the history of University of Malaya's design thesis philosophy. Working with all the challenges around us, led by Kevin Mark Low, Lisa Foo, and I, Naziaty, we managed to plan, design, and facilitate a studio program that compelled students to engage with and gain confidence through the emphasis on detail design. Looking back on the podcast episodes we did earlier in 2020, you may recall this tremendous effort of trying to provide the best design thesis experience for the graduate. I am happy and proud that we managed to do this despite a lot of challenges and personal sacrifices.
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): Street Market design thesis analysis by Low Joo Yin (batch 2018-19 on Kampung Kerinchi)
The second part discussion on why everything is personal, in your work and what you do, because professionalism is not a form of detachment from feelings, inspiration, and motivation.
Inspired by comments that I got from Facebook on Part 1, I will explain what and how it was done ( my role ) in the architecture design studio programme at the university. The reason why it was important that I take my work personally.
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): Online crit on the UM Campus Masterplan Special Semester August 2020 (screenshot by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob)
What motivates a student of architecture to excel? What gives confidence and inspires a student of architecture to be successful in his / her career? There are elements at play in the architecture design studio programme that will ensure this. Revisiting the master-apprentice (tutor-student) system that has been watered down or less effective in today's practice in universities due to the CGPA grading system, for example.
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): Online crit on a UM faculty design in Special Semester August 2020 (screenshot by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob)
Professionalism, if practice as a detached and impersonal service, may not serve its' intended purpose. Therefore, in this candid take on stating that "everything is personal" proposes the idea that we need to take everything we do, personally. It has to care and matter what effects we want the result to be. Whether you agree or not, this is just an exploration of how to express oneself in creative projects, like writing or drawing.
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): Site visit Special Semester July 2020 (taken by a student)
A series of podcast episodes start with the Introduction to Architectural Theorists, wherein in Part 2, we have the:
•Formalism and space: John Summerson
•Modernist: Steen Eiler Rasmussen, Le Corbusier, Ebenezer Howard
Some elaborations have been added to the introduction done via YouTube in this link:
Introduction to Architectural Theory [L-T1 2021-22AT]
Also my tribute to Professor James Stevens Curl, my History of Architecture lecturer who inspired my love of historic buildings and architecture. LINK
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): Professor James Stevens Curl [JSC in the library: photo Lara Platman (2009)]
A series of podcast episodes start with the Introduction to Architectural Theorists, wherein in Part 1, we have the Historical theorists such as Vitruvius, Palladio, Le-Duc, and Ruskin. Some elaborations have been added to the introduction done via YouTube in this link:
Introduction to Architectural Theory [L-T1 2021-22AT]
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): "6 traditions" by Charles Jencks
To design with empathy, there is a need to train the architect, architectural designers, interior designers, property developers, contractors, and those in the construction industry, on accessibility and universal design. It is essential in this day and age, to build knowledge and skills so that they can help themselves and their companies, by understanding the concept of disability and barriers. Environmental and social goals (ESGs) programs are required for corporate social responsibility but for these companies, it is a value proposition that they can not ignore in the property and construction industry. The ability to own the process of designing with empathy is required in the services offered and not merely CSR. Do click on this link to find out more: https://www.facebook.com/groups/641113263714324 or DM me on Instagram @designzasve
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): "Talk Architecture" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob; Bus Stop drawing by Kamelia Jambari
Always start with feelings rather than thoughts, as the expression that comes out of feelings in either writing or drawing your ideas would be closer to what is needed to convey to get the message across to the audience or someone perceiving your work. It is not one or the other but the practice of writing and drawing for an architectural designer can interchangeably do the job, rather than just focusing on one. To write one needs to be reading a lot.
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): "Talk Architecture" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob; Bus Stop drawing by Kamelia Jambari
In previous podcast episodes, we discussed what happens between the student and tutor in the studio in our interview podcasts, plus the design processes in topics such as Design Process in Architecture Studio Curriculum, for example.
We want to explain further the "myth" of the feedback processes in studio-based learning based on an article: David McClean & Neasa Hourigan (2013) Critical Dialogue in Architecture Studio: Peer Interaction and Feedback, Journal for Education in the Built Environment, 8:1, 35-57
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Art work in the podcast is the diagram by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob called the "design process diagram for all architecture design studios at UM School of Architecture"
Diagram © Copyright: Universiti Malaya, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
A quick introduction to what is industrial design quoting from the book "Industrial Design (World of Art) by John Heskett". This podcast was recorded in 2020.
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): "Talk Architecture" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob; Bus Stop drawing by Kamelia Jambari
A critique of a trending design is the STRAMP, a combination of staircase and ramp, designed in a way that is hazardous and dangerous to use by many people. With the uninformed designer it may look like a good idea but using the first principles of what is a staircase and what is a ramp, this podcast provides some idea of the problem with the design, if you are not skilled and knowledgeable in accessibility/disability access. If you need a good example, WOHA did a good one separating the functions clearly, in this link: https://woha.net/project/enabling-village/
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): "STRAMP" in the student center at IIT [ website: https://i.imgur.com/6nHRJ.jpg]
Another special feature commemorating the Month of Ramadan, at the midway point, we ask the question of "mosque architecture" in light of "domestic architecture"; has mosque architecture lost the sense of harmony and balance to achieve a sense of place for spirituality, that intimate spaces in domestic or vernacular architecture embody? The idea is to create a sense of intimacy (sensorial experience) to create that harmony and balance in the architecture so that we can find that feeling of peace when in a mosque. Is that possible? I refer to Ismail R. Al-Faruqi's "The Cultural Atlas of Islam" as a reference, in one of the articles mentioned. Happy Ramadhan!
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo: Section of Design Thesis by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
This is a special edition commemorating the First Day of the Month of Ramadan, where Muslims practice fast from before sunrise to sunset every day, without consuming drinks or food and abstaining from certain activities. But what does this have to do with architecture? My take on this short podcast is to propose that, it has a lot to do with architecture, in particular "phenomenology" and "sensory" aspects of architecture, including design. Do listen to the podcast and Ramadan Mubarak ~ Happy Fasting to those practicing and able to fast!
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): "Flying seeds with leaves, Kuala Lumpur" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The 'architecture anarchist' is a recent trend amongst the young architectural graduates to comment about architecture but without design practice experience. Is that acceptable? However, this could be due to the "instability" of the architecture profession in terms of not allowing for a diversity of thoughts to emerge in architecture education. Are fewer architecture graduates interested to pursue the traditional practice of architecture? I counted 60% of my batchmates pursued to practice in architecture or be an academic, whereas someone 25 years my junior said her batch, only 30% became architects and academic. This discussion is just a starter in the light of the vocal 'architecture anarchist', which could just be a trend of 'anarchist' or the lesser extreme, 'socialist' or 'leftist' stance among the Malaysian youths. What do you think? Please contact me @designsazve IG handle, if you want to discuss this topic in a future podcast. © 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): "Talk Architecture" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob; Bus Stop drawing by Kamelia Jambari
Architecture education is the key factor to making accessibility happen to include all people into mainstream development. This piece discusses the salient points needed to happen to make an impact in society: 1) The anthropometric and ergonomic aspects in the first year and universal design is integrated into the main studio course at first degree; 2) Continuous professional development where the understanding of disability and universal design is made compulsory to renew the professional architect's license and; 3) Government funding makes it compulsory to submit an access plan and design for all in all submissions.
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo: #AccessBlitz walk around KL in 2018, taken by Boa Er
My explanation on how we integrate and assess theory in the students assignment and studio work for second year first semester.
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo: Talk Architecture image by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
As a social entrepreneur, I would like to pose two ideas of which the first one being, whether it is possible to teach a blind person to be an architect? A different way to approach architecture design, where we may call it "sensory design" or "multi-sensory design" or an extension of "universal design" even.
For the second idea, we could be more experimental in our design practice approach, learning from Chris Downey's TedTalk the idea of "awareness of your capacity to organize your environment in a completely different way through sound, through touch, through smell" and other references discussed earlier.
So with these two notional ideas in mind, there is a potential to change how we perceive architecture design and move ahead in making things work better for our society.
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo: Universal Design Bus Stop Version 2 by © Universiti Malaya, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The discussion continues with two other articles and principles learned from "multisensory" design and approach, and "sensory design" apart from David Eagleman, the neuroscientist. I extracted some of the principles and discussed them further to summarize some way forward to design the universal design bus stop Version 3 and other designs.
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo: Universal Design Bus Stop Version 2 by © Universiti Malaya, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The discussion refers to the "Now concept" episodes and "Architecture and Disability" with reference to a Ted Talk by David Eagleman on "Can We Create New Senses for Humans" where I find this talk by the neuroscientist amazing exploring ideas on sensory substitution and sensory addition working with blind and deaf persons, such as the "umvelt", a sensory interface vest that uses the body sense of touch. Could we approach a similar way when designing architecture or transit designs such as a bus stop.
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo: Universal Design Bus Stop Version 2 by © Universiti Malaya, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
"Designing an experience is a unique responsibility of an architect. The theory of phenomenology acknowledges this responsibility by implementing sensory design in order to establish experiential, architectural space. Phenomenology demonstrated in architecture is the manipulation of space, material, and light and shadow to create a memorable encounter through an impact on the human senses. This theory promotes the integration of sensory perception as a function of a built form. " [from file:///C:/Users/user/Desktop/essay2.pdf]. The discussion is an explorative one using the design of a bus stop that we had done recently.
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo: Universal Design Bus Stop Version 2 by © Universiti Malaya, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The final part of the discussion on the assessment and examination processes called the Portfolio Review which is symptomatic of the architecture education system in Malaysian schools of architecture. Focusing on the Design Thesis.
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo: Design Thesis 2019-2020 unit 2 online discussion by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Continuing the discussion on the assessment and examination processes called the Portfolio Review which is symptomatic of the architecture education system in Malaysian schools of architecture. Is it just a way to verify the grades or a way to ensure quality is maintained? What is it for really?
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo: Talk Architecture image by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
This discussion compares the assessment and examination processes with the AA School of Architecture, and other schools that have terms, with Malaysian schools of architecture. Many architecture schools in Malaysia follow what is practised among others more established and also the incorporation of portfolio review in the examination process. This is not the only mechanism that is needed to be revised or reflected its use and function. However we will investigate this first.
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo: Section of Design Thesis by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Viewing from the mental health perspective, including mind, body and soul concept, we ventured into the notion of "time and space". The relevance of the past only as precedents and only to learn from, and any recollection is for the "now" suggests that "time is relative" and there is no such thing as time, actually. "Space" therefore needs all the "nowness" of sensorial experiences to validate it, which is difficult in conceptualization and visualization of the architectural concept. This discussion veers to "phenomenology in architecture".
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): "Raintree at Jalan Kg Attap, Kuala Lumpur" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The 1st day Lunar Year chat around the dining table. Four individuals chatting about Part 3 Professional Certification and comparing it to getting doctorate. Issues of getting jobs and mentoring. Same protagonists as Part 3 & 4 episodes on Architecture Design Problems, but more about practice. Excuse the language used and it’s partly in Malay language about 1/4 of the time in parts. Thanks for listening.
©️2022 Talk Architecture. Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): “ Tiger (Cat) Lunar Year on a ledge” by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Why do we have practical training subjects in architecture schools? In particular to be done traditionally as a "year out" course after the 3rd year and before the M Arch or 4th year. I found the experience an essential part of learning and gaining confidence, and believe that at least 6 months and better still, a year of practical training having a certain role in an architecture company would be the best way to learn. This podcast centred on what makes a good practical training experience for the student of architecture.
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): " Site Visit in 2020-21 with the 2nd year students at Jalan Tiong Nam, KL area" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
A continuation of the informal chat on the first day of the Lunar Year of the Tiger (February 1, 2022) with Kamelia Jambari and Amalina Azizan, from the last podcast episode on "designing with confidence". Kamelia, started her own architectural design business called Studio Ti.Tinta, and Amalina started a design and build business called Se Bulan Design (both are Instagram handles). Hope the conversation gives some insights on the issue.
Happy New Year of the Tiger!
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): "Tiger Lunar Year chat" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
An informal chat on the first day of the Lunar Year of the Tiger (February 1, 2022) with Kamelia Jambari and Amalina Azizan, where we started off with "research by design" or "design by research" conundrum. Then somehow, it led to us having a chat about senior living and accessibility. We tried to steer back to what we started. Hopefully some insights on the thoughts of the graduate architects on the architecture design problem. Do join us in this podcast that was done on a fine afternoon at the dining table.
Happy New Year of the Tiger!
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): "Tiger Lunar Year chat" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
We need to be mindful of how the design studio curriculum and the corresponding subjects are set up in the first degree. This podcast episode is on the second-year studio projects but led the discussion on how soon the 'theory of architecture' needs to be learned. The design problem at this level will relate more to the building type rather than the size of the project. More discussion on this precise debate of the first and second year together, in the next podcast.
Happy New Year of the Tiger!
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): "Pavement tiles in Raub" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The most complicated project when it comes to identifying the design problems is the design thesis course at the final year of an M Arch education or the fifth year final project. The students will need to choose a topic and a site, for the issues-driven project or building type project where inevitably the site issues are less addressed and the design is more to do with justifying the architecture programmes. This is an introduction to the topic inspired by my chat with a student who needed clarification on his design thesis at the halfway point.
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): "Pavement tiles in Raub" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The second part of our proposal of the Basics of A School of Architecture is on: "How are we teaching sustainability?" I referred to my architectural theory notes from this semester, defining the difference between 'green building' and 'sustainability'. My opinion is that we are in danger of not teaching properly 'sustainability' to future architects. The root of the problem is partly due to us lecturers, either unaware of this fact or being afraid to deal with urbanity, urban design, neighborhoods, and community issues, leaving it to the planners to 'design' our cities with 'developers'. By not being critical, we risk aiding and abetting teaching our students to design isolated communities and support disparity in income by creating alienating development. We need to seriously rethink the way we teach 'sustainability' because time is running out and we do not want to be the profession that is the cause of our society's problems.
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): "Fishmonger at Sandakan market in 2019" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Some invaluable insights (from the article with the link below) "Designing with accessibility in mind: a conversation". We continue the 2nd Part on Design Thinking and how we need to include all persons' needs when designing architecture or a product. However, this article author sends another message where it is equally important to include persons with different disabilities in co-designing and involved in the design processes and tools from the start until finish. We reviewed the article's points to the discussion on design thinking.
https://techcrunch.com/2021/03/09/designing-with-accessibility-in-mind-a-conversation/
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): Suntrack Development Showroom Unit (Naziaty Mohd Yaacob)
There is a need to address the bias or imbalance in the design of the curriculum in an architecture school in 2022. How are we teaching sustainability? Have we relegated architecture theory and philosophy, cultural and social contexts to the end zone of our architecture curriculum? Are we regurgitating the same knowledge again and again and students will not be well equipped and confident enough to face the realities of practice and society in general? Have we left out the essential skill of critical thinking?
We had been dealing with this topic in the last year, interviewed individuals, even had our clubhouse room sessions but we haven't really dug deep enough to make a difference in our architecture curriculum. We have only been skimming the surface and kidding ourselves.
Let's be honest. So let's dig deeper. Part 1, this episode, we ask questions again and conclude with some issues.
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): "Site visit by the second year at Kampung Baru, Kuala Lumpur" by Low Pey Sien
What are the biases that we have when finding a solution for a disabled person? Would a physically disabled person be able to work as a farmer or a mechanic? Would a blind person be able to practice architecture?
Referring to the article (link below) at ideo.org popularly advocating design thinking, one of the authors did research on this topic of 'disabled persons and livelihood' and conducted a participant workshop on brainstorming possibilities on how a disabled person can do the work which people perceived to be impossible.
https://www.ideo.org/perspective/creative-inclusion-and-bias-breaking
© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): Suntrack Development Showroom Unit (Naziaty Mohd Yaacob)
Happy New Year - 2022!
In the last 9 weeks, students came back to the campus and tutors conducted hybrid learning with a mixture of online and face-to-face interactions. Despite the fears of getting Covid-19, we, both students and tutors relied on our trust and instinct, with SOPs (standard operating procedures) to conduct the latter mode especially.
I discussed how I developed a new perspective on the difference between online and face-to-face interactions in the architecture design studio, what makes the difference, and why face-to-face interactions are important. No one told me this before and somehow we made our group interactions much better, in smaller groups of 3-4 students together for an hour. I see the desired outcomes from the students' progress and also improved on the integration of theory in the studio projects.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): "Crit space for a small group with SOPs" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Using my second-year students as an example, I explained how I am teaching my students to design to come up with the scheme. This is the batch where they did online learning for the whole of the first year and had only been at the campus in the last 9 weeks. Focusing on the use of precedents and the critical part before getting the narrative and concept. This gives a sense of what a student deals at the beginning of an introduction to the design process.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): "Notes on a whiteboard" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Designing for disability helps everyone
We refer to Elise Roy's talks and an article that stated why accessibility is important, not only from a moral and legal standpoint but also from a business perspective that gives value to the product and solution.
"I believe that losing my hearing was one of the greatest gifts I've ever received," says Elise Roy. As a disability rights lawyer and design thinker, she knows that being Deaf gives her a unique way of experiencing and reframing the world -- a perspective that could solve some of our largest problems. As she says: "When we design for disability first, you often stumble upon solutions that are better than those when we design for the norm."
https://www.ted.com/talks/elise_roy_when_we_design_for_disability_we_all_benefit?utm_campaign=tedspread&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=tedcomshare
https://www.interaction-design.org/literature/article/3-reasons-why-accessible-design-is-good-for-all
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): Universal Design Bus Stop Version 1, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur (Naziaty Mohd Yaacob)
Part 2 review of an article by Zach Mortice found at the AIA website (American Institute of Architecture), which told a story of the current phenomenon on disability access and inclusion practice by architects. The idea that the 'design intent' of architecture is based on inclusion, is the most ideal situation for any buildings.
“Accessibility is a topic that should be brought to the very beginning of any project,” Braitmayer said.
Link to the article: https://www.aia.org/articles/6215411-design-for-all-requires-a-culture-change-i
For further information, do join the Facebook Group: Smart Design with Disabled Access in Mind
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): Universal Design Bus Stop Version 1, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur (Naziaty Mohd Yaacob)
In conjunction with the International Day for Disabled Persons on 3rd December, this is a special podcast focusing on 'what is embracing disability and designing for accessibility for an architect and designer?' Why is it important to design for accessibility as part of any design approach from the beginning?
For further information, do join the Facebook Group: Smart Design with Disabled Access in Mind
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
What happens when an architect meets a biologist and chat about "Genius Loci" [Sense of Place]? However, Dr. N. Hashim has been around architects most of her life and is familiar with architectural terms. As a keen geographer and writer herself, the discussion revolved around the kind of design approach needed and learning experience necessary to even understand what 'genius loci' is, in the context of Kampung Baru (Urban Village) in Kuala Lumpur, the site of the second year students' project. Some insights were given for this podcast under Theory of Architecture.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo: Dr. N. Hashim
This two-part commentary and part review of an article by Zach Mortice found at the AIA website (American Institute of Architecture), tells a story of the current phenomenon on disability access and inclusion practice by architects and provides insights on how architects still need to 'own the process' of designing for inclusion from the beginning or as part of the design and not an additive layer.
Quote: "Disability occurs at the intersection of the person and their environment. Architecture, in all its forms, also occurs at the intersection of the person and their environment, making it a vital player in any evaluation of inclusion", says Valerie Fletcher.
Thus, architecture = disability access, and is not an additional aspect to take into account later or a 'code burden'.
Link to the article: https://www.aia.org/articles/6215411-design-for-all-requires-a-culture-change-i
For further information, do join the Facebook Group: Smart Design with Disabled Access in Mind
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): Suntrack Development SB multi-generational homes view of the shower for Type B Showroom Unit at Setia Alam, Selangor, Malaysia (photo by James Tan)
Welcome to the 1st in a new series of podcasts on the topic: Architecture Design with Design Empathy, Accessibility, and Universal Design.
We start off with an introduction on:
Understanding Barriers
Understanding Disability
For further information, do join the Facebook Group: Smart Design with Disabled Access in Mind
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): Suntrack Development SB multi-generational homes view of kitchen for Type B Showroom Unit at Setia Alam, Selangor, Malaysia (photo by James Tan)
Reflecting on situations when we encounter the student is stuck and cannot move forward with his design, we ask why? A couple of conclusions based on some deliberations: 1) Lack of understanding 'context' for the first-degree student where there is too much fixation on 'form' learned in the first year; 2) Lack of design approach on dealing with the context and coming up with programs that cannot support the 'concept' for the design thesis (MArch) student. This is just an interlude that I am thinking about right now.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): Design thesis section (by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob)
You cannot take out 'people' from the context. Context is arguably very tangible, as we can assume that form is obviously tangible. Chris Alexander, 1971, said that: form is the design solution whereas, context defines the design problem. Context comes first, form later. Defining the context well, understanding people and relationships, she is trying to be 'in the user' who is using the space, thus the designer makes sense of the place, connecting people with the existing context, making a 'new context'. Taking into account the old setting, transforming into a new setting. What can an architectural designer do? What can an architecture student do? Are the students limited due to experience? But what if the student understands the quote: Design is a conversation between creativity and context (Low, 2014), and getting it, about the user. How powerful is that? Realizing what architecture is about, giving meaning to forms. Not knowing much, but attempting to actually emphatise the user, you can set the skill earlier on.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): Design thesis section (by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob)
Context is about people and relationships.
“The ultimate object of design is form” (Christopher Alexander, 1977). He further stated that: “Every design problem begins with an effort to achieve fitness between two entities: the form in question and its context”. The form is the solution to the problem; the context defines the problem”
But what is 'context'?
We continue the conversation around this quote:
"Design is the Conversation Between Creativity and Context" (Kevin Mark Low (author) in Small Projects, ORO Editions (May 1, 2014)). More on the discussion regarding my students struggling with 'context' as their precedents are all about form, which is the more tangible. Context is more complex in this regard.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): Design thesis section (by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob)
We continue the conversation around this quote:
"Design is the Conversation Between Creativity and Context" (Kevin Mark Low (author) in Small Projects, ORO Editions (May 1, 2014))
Introducing on 'specific context', which later was often quoted as 'context specificities' (after Low), when dealing with a design project, may it be a real-life project or a student's project in the second year, I would like to refer to the quote above and after that I would quote Chris Alexander in his book "Notes on the Synthesis of Form" (1971), in particular, this one: “The ultimate object of design is form”, I would argue, that, context first and then, form.
My students are struggling more when they approach their design with the form and try to fit in the reasons why (that form) later. We need to provide this advice to our students, to place more importance on 'context'. I will be starting a series on this, as a way to make sense of the issue of the design approach and how we as tutors need to manage this carefully in the learning experience of our future architects.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): Drawing of a Leaf (by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob)
Discussion on how to design for inclusivity, focusing on adaptive re-use and conservation practice, suggesting ways on how to go about this based on some case studies.
You would want your design to include as many people as possible, especially if it is a public building. But you do not want to make your building feel like it's a 'medical facility' with all those stainless steel railings, for example. What can you do?
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): "Pavement tiles in Raub" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
We continue with the readings from the next 3 pages of the book entitled: The Model and Its Architecture by Patrick Healy, where he examines the architectural model. The readings so far touched upon, metaphors, concepts, ideology and other assertions. What I find most useful so far with what was discussed in part 1 & 2, is how to think and argue the relationship between 'theory and model'. Although we will be going through 'chemistry' models and deliberation on what is 'truth' (for example), I explained the message from the book, in terms of the use of Classical orders and columns. Not knowing the words well or having the time to check for the exact definitions, I conveyed as much as I could to the listeners. Hope it helps.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): The book cover of The Model and Its Architecture by Patrick Healy
You would want your design to include as many people as possible, especially if it is a public building. But you do not want to make your building feel like it's a 'medical facility' with all those stainless steel railings, for example. What can you do? Some thoughts here on how to approach your design and achieve a balance in making it more functional and yet, aesthetically pleasing. How to negotiate all those compliance and standards and feel good about the aesthetics of your building and getting your desired outcomes, yet feel pleased with yourself. Look out for more thoughts on this in Part 2, coming soon.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): "Pavement tiles in Raub" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
What are the pre-occupations that the architect has with the model? Is it always to do with depicting exactly what one needs to build? That depends on the context the model is being made for. And models are not always about architecture, as we have models of atoms and molecules in chemistry and mathematical models. The first 3 page reading of the book entitled: The Model and Its Architecture by Patrick Healy, where he examines the architectural model, but in the beginning, the author explained about other models.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): The book cover of The Model and Its Architecture by Patrick Healy
If students or architecture/graduates are not able to hold a conversation and be engaged with others such as their tutors and peers, their employers, the other consultants, the contractor and supplier, the design team members, they would not be able to form a connection and be able to do their job in a satisfactory manner. Extending our discussion on the topic of how to compete globally, the skills of verbal engagement including holding a conversation are not superficial. In that form of engagement, the students are able to interpret the world, form an opinion and communicate well. This episode referred to the clubhouse event at the ''School of Architecture" clubhouse room and quoted from Huat Lim's points.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): The "winged seed of desire" found in Bangsar's Jalan Sepat (or some fish name).
What do you learn in architecture schools nowadays? There are so many things to learn apart from your studio work, you would have a few other classes going on concurrently. What has been gained and what is at a loss? Can a student/graduate be able to hold a conversation? Consistently, this point was made by Huat Lim in our podcast and clubhouse event [School of Architecture Session last 28 September 2021], which is a graduate/student of architecture need to learn how to "hold a conversation", talking about an idea, a concept, a theory, even a piece of current news, in an intelligent manner, with a point of view. It would be interesting to explore this aspect, as we believe that a person who can converse, can also design and resolve many design problems including technical requirements. Talking is part of the design process.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): Raintree at Jalan Kampung Attap, Kuala Lumpur.
The current practice of architecture may not be of concern with the theory of architecture, but more than 2,000 years ago in Rome, the theory of architecture was regarded the same as the practice of architecture. Quoted by Vitruvius on "Utility, Strength, and Beauty" as the fundamental principles of architecture, the architect, builder, and engineer in the Roman times in Antiquity were not separated entities but are one and the same. The 10 books of Architecture, talked about the practice and qualifications of the 'architect', construction and materials, building types, and also, the aesthetic principles of the orders. In this day and age, the aesthetics, structure, and functional aspects are dealt with separately. At the very least, the theory of architecture enables the architect to reflect on the current situation of the profession and in the many themes and studies, we could reflect on what had gone before and what has transpired since and the state we are in, so that we may be able to decide on the future better.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): "Vitruvian Man", illustration in the edition of De architectura by Vitruvius; illustrated edition by Cesare Cesariano (1521) from Wikipedia
In the second part of a recent podcast in series 6, we continue with the discussion of how the theory of architecture includes the human perspective in terms of "function". Based on the Bloomberg City Lab article written by Anna Zivarts, on April 23, 2021, entitled "The ‘15-Minute City’ Isn’t Made for Disabled Bodies", we discussed further how it is important for architects and designers to relearn about "function". Additional training on how to "design with empathy" would make designers be good designers and include all persons when they design as they would be thorough in the understanding of the barriers and the critical dimensions needed to design for disabled persons.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): "Leaf" using acrylics by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
This is a podcast outlining the questions and discussion points that will be addressed in this session: “Session #1 - School of Architecture ” the topic of "Can Malaysian Architecture Schools be like the AA School?"
The host of Talk Architecture, Naziaty Mohd Yaacob will be discussing with Amna Emir, Cheah Ee Von, Huat Lim and moderated with Nur Izzati among others.
You won't want to miss it!
Please be at the session hosted by the clubhouse room: School of Architecture. Tuesday, 21 Sep at 8:30 PM MYT @clubhouse
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): "Core programs for design thesis" poster by Ahmad Zaldarriaga Sadain
In series 6, we continue with the discussion of how the theory of architecture includes the human perspective in terms of "function". Based on the Bloomberg City Lab article written by Anna Zivarts, on April 23, 2021, entitled "The ‘15-Minute City’ Isn’t Made for Disabled Bodies", we discussed how urban planners are not having the conversation to include disabled persons when they suggest concepts such as the "15-Minute City", where the idea of "speed over access" is prioritized. The design of a city is based on an able-bodied perception focused on efficiency. The host suggests that the lack of understanding of the needs of disabled persons is the reason for the oversight.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): "Aidan's drawings" by Aidan Azlan
Concluding part of the journey: Amna A Emir on "Can Malaysian Architecture Schools be like the AA School?" (Part 2)
Amna related her Part 2 Diploma years unit journey as a student at the AA school of architecture and concluded skeptically on whether Malaysian Architecture Schools can be like the AA. It is notable that the AA student even in the first year considered the shaping of their school of thought parallel to developing the thesis. Amna pointed out the results of the learning outcome after each year, either program or strategy, and that is really an important factor for any academic to recognize, that differs from the production and technical work. Do listen in to find out!
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): "Decayed leaf" by Amna A Emir
Special Guest 2: Amna A Emir on "Can Malaysian Architecture Schools be like the AA School?" (Part 1)
Amna takes us on a journey as a student at the AA school of architecture, in this podcast episode, bringing us, close to her experiences, from Year 1 to Year 3. Some points discussed include - Amna using her intuition to find and fit into a unit, appreciating the total freedom of creating her own brief, the idea of traveling, the idea of education not fixed to a place, finding your school of thought, with the many diverse units available, and finally finding it in Year 3. Let's take a ride back in time during the late Alvin Boyarsky's time and find out what Amna's first three years at the AA school were like.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork): "Bridges" by Amna A Emir
Teaser: Our guest for the next interview session on "Can Malaysian Architecture Schools be like the AA School?" will be:Amna A Emir, designer, architect and mother, and a director at Neuformation, and we shall have a really good insight on what happens to the student as Amna will take us on a journey as a student at the AA school of architecture. Amna did say earlier in another podcast (30 January 2021 - Architects are Artists) that AA is the place to have the "convergence of a laboratory of thoughts", so what does that mean? What really happened at the AA school? See you soon.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work): "Self-portrait" by Amna A Emir
"The concluding part, with Huat Lim, AA Dip. The 3rd in our series on "Can Malaysian Architecture Schools be like the AA School?"
In this conversation, Huat argues further on the need to "ask deeper questions", such as probing more about nature, when the topic is "bio-mimicry". We need to cultivate a questioning mind and not assume things. Other subjects discussed are the influences on his education and the necessary approach to design. Huat concluded with: Yes, Malaysian Architecture Schools can be like the AA school. So do listen in to find out how!
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork) of "sketch " by Huat Lim
Special Guest 1: Huat Lim, AA Dip. The 3rd in our series on "Can Malaysian Architecture Schools be like the AA School?"
All the questions asked, including 'what is the difference between AA grads and non AA grads', 'is designing a kitchen as complex as designing a building', 'how AA school teaches you to think', and many more right here in Part 1 and later Part 2, more on the problem with architecture education, and how to ask questions.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork) of "Point 92" ZLG Design
A teaser on the upcoming interview and conversation with Huat Lim, Managing Director of ZLG Design on the topic of "Can Malaysian Architecture Schools be like the AA School?" We will unpack a lot of stuff on the learning experience as Huat graduated from the AA school in the early 80s.
Huat Lim contributed as a part-time tutor in my 3rd-year design studio back in 2000 and 2001. I was conscious that I needed a strong theoretical and critical approach to assist with the studio learning back then and found out that Huat had been an external tutor in the AA school in the mid-80s. Now zoom into the last few years and we found Huat teaching as a part-time tutor in three private universities and colleges and has been consistently contributing with his lectures on a variety of intriguing topics. His experience as a design practitioner is prolific, with working on the Stansted Airport and Nimes Art Museum with Fosters and Associates, the Singapore Library with Ken Yeang, and producing works such as Boh Estate Visitors Centre and Point 92, among other notable works.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork) of "profile pic" of Huat Lim
Concluding part: Conversation with Nur Izzati Mohd Khairan "Can Malaysian Architecture Schools be like the AA School?" (Part 2)
Izzati and I continued with the agenda of learning 'theory' in the design studio programs and whether Malaysian graduates can compete globally. We found out that in the Part 2 MArch course, learning theory is an option, and in an elective course, thus some Malaysian architecture educators designed the curriculum assuming that design principles and applying them in the studio work are theoretical enough.
One point we identified was AA school was run with either Pass or Fail (which Ee Von pointed out in the previous podcast) which made the learning environment more precise and focused. We wish to pursue this and other agendas with the next guests.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) of "Woman in Red Staircase" (Izzati)
September Specials: Conversation with Nur Izzati Mohd Khairan "Can Malaysian Architecture Schools be like the AA School?" (Part 1)
Izzati and I discussed further "prickly" issues that need to be addressed from our experiences and what we have learned from previous discussions. Recollecting important points that were not fully addressed, we also reflected on Izzati's experiences as a student and find the common threads of arguments and not-so-common issues. We also debated on our difference of opinion.
Some points were not really worth pursuing further but just needed to be said and others could assist with framing more questions for the future guests, namely about theory in architecture design studio curriculum and its implementation.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) of "Woman in Red Staircase" (Izzati)
Coming soon. The second guest on this topic: "Can Malaysian Architecture Schools be like the AA School?" We will continue to frame and reframe the questions as Izzati is my partner in crime, who forages with me in clubhouse events on architecture education to dig up some nuggets of insights.
Izzati graduated with a degree in Bachelor of Science in Architecture from International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) and did her Master in Architecture at Deakin University, Australia. Izzati practiced with a local firm for 5 years as a graduate architect before branching out on her own. Her passion for sharing and her passion for teaching had her back to her tutoring for Alma-mater and University Malaya after. Besides tutoring, she is actively joining design critiques from private and public universities in Malaysia.
Izzati believes that the design process is the expression of the dialog between client and designer; a willingness to explore possibilities with the realization that there is never a single answer or solution.
For her, it is important to have some engagement with the academic world while practicing on her own. She is also an Academic Advisor for Interior Design for Raffles College. Izzati is also an advocate of exposing architecture to children and youth.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) of "Woman in Red Staircase" (Izzati)
Interlude: The importance of theory in architecture design studio curriculum.
This is my reaction to what had been said by Cheah Ee Von, wherein conclusion she said “Malaysian Architecture schools can be like the AA school”, and as for me, I have always believed that theory can be better assimilated in the architecture studio curriculum and in particular the Masters of Architecture course. In this podcast episode, I explained how theory is assimilated or not in the MArch course where I teach as I know it. This episode brings to light the teaching and learning practice of a case study of a public Malaysian university, from my point of view.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork) of "Design Thesis Interim Crit Session, Batch 2018-19, Unit 2, Site-context issues-driven approach"
Selamat Hari Merdeka Malayans!
The Malayan 64th Independence Day Special: A Conversation with Cheah Ee Von "Can Malaysian Architecture Schools be like the AA School?" - Part 2
We continue where our conversation delved deeper into the questions asked before, on the importance of "theory", crits, reviews, and juries in the AA School, where Cheah Ee Von went for her Part 2 diploma. The ideas and description of her journey and how she felt provide the setting for us to understand what goes on at the AA School. In future podcasts in September 2021, we look forward to more conversations that would critically inquire about the direction of Malaysian Architecture Education and the different schools of thought. But is that enough? What else can we find out from our guests? Let's finish up with the first (two-part) episode of this 7 series with Ee Von first, which is the crucial setting for more.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork) of “The future is hot, Malaysia can take it if we want it.”
Photograph of a random shop in Shoreditch, London (December 2019)
The Malayan 64th Independence Day Special: A Conversation with Cheah Ee Von "Can Malaysian Architecture Schools be like the AA School?" - Part 1
We start off to know about the AA School unit system at the Diploma (Part 2) level. Ee Von takes us through her motivation and desire to will herself to get to the AA. She then describes what and how she chose the Diploma units and other aspects for us to get an understanding of what the AA is about in order for us to build up the conversation. In the first interview of a series of interviews this month and next with different personalities, we are interviewing a fresh graduate to kick start the series, wherein the second part to be published tomorrow we will deal deeper into the questions asked before on the importance of "theory", crits, reviews, and juries in the AA started in Part 1.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork) of “The future is hot, Malaysia can take it if we want it.”
Photograph of a random shop in Shoreditch, London (December 2019)
Coming up will be a series of conversations between the host and a number of guests talking on the topic of "Can Malaysian Architecture Schools be like the AA School?" We start next week's chat on the Independence Day Special with Cheah Ee Von, who recently graduated from the AA School in London, and did her first degree at Taylor's University in Malaysia. Do check out this podcast on how this conversation came about from the MSIANARCHIREVIEW Club sessions started on Architecture Education in the past weeks.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) of "Waiting on the Terrace" by VB found at https://life.aaschool.ac.uk/?p=17558
Introduction: Reasons Why Malaysian Architecture Graduates Cannot Compete Globally
Continuing from the discussion in other clubhouse events MSIARCHIREVIEW club (which I attended as an audience member) notably on the 7th and 14th August 2021, the guest speaker said that, “The reason why I suggested that we talk about architecture education is that I want our graduates to be among the best in the world. I want them to be able to compete with the foreign architects because we know the foreign architects are coming into our country and the only way (forward) for us is to compete with them. If we have good graduates that have solid architecture, education background, then we're able to compete (with) anyone in the world, and not only that, we can even go outside of the country to actually export our services. That's why I think we need to relook at our current architecture education system and what can be done to make ours among the best in the world. That's the reason why we have this discussion, and I think time is short.” So I decided to discuss this subject and proposed 5 reasons why.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) of Eva's master planning project (design thesis batch 2018-19) on the Kerinchi Park Linkage project
This is a commentary on the design thesis of the MArch course based on what has been discussed in the MSIAARCHIREVIEW Club session at 9 pm on 7th August 2021. At the University of Malaya, we had conducted the design thesis course based on what the students proposed for their own individual self since 2002/2003. (It was B Arch then). The protagonist and others supported this approach in the discussion last night. I will explain the issues affecting the design thesis, the student, in light of architecture education and the problems we are facing, and how this discussion last night shows that the problem is still there.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) of Eva Liew's poster (design thesis batch 2018-19) on the Kerinchi Park Linkage project
Fresh from listening in to the Clubhouse event on “Better Design Critiques” with moderators, Petrula, Leon, and Evan of the Design Career Masterclass, we were exposed to ideas on the criteria for design critiques; The designer will 1) Provide the context of whatever (design) he/she is showing (with the objectives and goals / talking to the brief; 2) Explain project goals to the audience (critics) and key messages and; 3) Ascertain the requirements, constraints, and strategies (expected feedback from the critics). The idea is to achieve constructive feedback to happen eventually. Using the formula of > Praise > Observation > Judgment, we will become more aware of the similarities between all design disciplines. This podcast episode explores what are the similarities and differences. The second part is a commentary on "design thinking" and is that the right word to explain what is happening in the architectural design process, as originally "design thinking" came from IDEO and the product design discipline.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo of (artwork) on a not so critical design of an alternative logo design on Talk Architecture podcast did on Canva in 5 minutes.
Exclusive Interview: Khoo Salma Nasution suggested 'urban farming' as the way forward to resolve problems of access to edible and nutritious food in the cities and as a reaction to problems with pesticide-laden food and on the other problem, eating instant noodles by those living in urban poverty. Talking about local government, developers, architects and society's role on how to combat climate change and reducing carbon footprint, the themes include, the need for us to come out of our bubbles to befriend other communities (such as the fishermen in her NGO work), similarly architects should be talking to others such as planners, so that we empathise and know each others perspectives, to start the journey of collective engagement to solve society's real problems. Heritage buildings such as the shophouse typology increasingly becomes an important type to resolve issues to combat pandemic such as COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2), so back to square one, while acknowledging the limitation of air-conditioned spaces.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) shows Khoo Salma in her garden at home (close up view).
What does an urban and environmental activist has to say about architects and architecture?
Khoo Salma Nasution graduated with a Liberal Arts degree from Duke University, U.S.A. She is a friend to many of us, an activist who is multi-talented, campaigner, mother of three children and wife of Abdur-Razzaq Lubis, her partner in crime with Areca Books and Zero Sugar. Her activism started with heritage conservation with Penang Heritage Trust and AWPNUC, and now, the Penang Forum on the Transportation Master Plan and South Penang Sea Reclamation project. Khoo Salma had worked with a number of built environment professionals, including architects and designers.
We would like to know from her, how it is like working with architects, what is her favourite architecture and urban conservation effort done, and what she thinks about design education or architecture education in particular. Would having a liberal arts education help an architect to deal better with the environment and society? These will be revealed in the interview coming up soon.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) shows Khoo Salma in her garden at home.
In psychology, the sense of self concept is one of the important primary understanding for self growth and awareness. 'Being present at the moment' and aware of the situation we are in, is the phenomenological thinking principle, from the human being perspective. Establishing from a meditative state we can begin to unravel the complexities of phenomena in relation to our sense of self with our surroundings.
In this podcast episode, we attempted in the first instance to interpret this awareness and underline the importance of consciousness in phenomenology to postulate how theory of architecture should be considered in architectural practice. We refer to the article: How Architectural “Theory” Disconnects the Profession From the Public (Ross Brady, 2017) in Common Edge;And began to assemble a case for theory to be a fundamental learning in architecture education and its relevance to practice.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo of Terminalia calamansanai (winged seeds) taken in Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur early 2021.
We traced back some ideas on the future of design education. The context of the conversation is that architecture may relate more to the construction courses in some universities, but in this case some conversation was caught on a Clubhouse app chat hosted by the Design Careers Masterclass clubroom, hosted by some really good moderators, focused on the design courses and in this case, architecture definitely is involved. The chat was listened to by quite a number of people, was engaging and gave a lot of up to date information on design education. This one caught my attention in particular: why are universities are slow in adapting to the development in society on how people learn? Universities are so caught up in ranking and businesses investing in them, that the idea of learning that universities are founded on is lost and often it just leave to dedicated lecturers to conduct the learning. So what is getting a degree about again? Some points here to investigate further.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo of Unit 2 batch 2020-2021 in July 13 2020, starting their walkabout site visit at Universiti Malaya campus for the final year design thesis project
The second and concluding part interview with Ar. Ch'ng Sao Inn of Saoinn Architect.
Architecture is a process of discovery. In this session we continued on the subject of the importance of some learning in school that would be carried on into practice. Insights on Sao Inn's approach managing a design team in JDW a design and built company was explained in Part 1. Discussion on concepts being based on scientific evidence and not just a propaganda is pointed out. On his own practice, how he would approach designing from the start to going on site strategies and discovering as you go along.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) from Saoinn Architect of people and works at a site in Tanarimba, Pahang, Malaysia.
The first part interview with Ar. Ch'ng Sao Inn of Saoinn Architect.
In this session we started with Sao Inn's architectural journey from school (University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur) right up till working life and establishing his own practice since 2016. We touched on architecture education including some insights on the first degree learning for architecture students which could be more hands on and understanding the materials. A fascinating description of how some things taught in a way quite simply at second year was picked up later in practice. Going back and forth, we touched on the importance of some learning in school that would be carried on into practice.
Reference Xinjiang issue here: https://www.architecturalrecord.com/articles/15203-architect-alison-killing-wins-a-pulitzer-for-uncovering-forced-labor-camps-in-china
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) from Saoinn Architect of people and works at a site in Tanarimba, Pahang, Malaysia.
A teaser on an upcoming interview with the Principal Architect of Saoinn Architect.
What does design mean to you?
Why do you think school is important?
This featured podcast will be a dialogue on everything and anything about school and design between Sao Inn and Naziaty.
Born in Penang Island, Sao Inn received both of his architectural degree from University of Malaya. He joined GDP Architects in 2004, and later Juteras Design Workshop in 2008. In the following years, he worked alongside local builders and craftsmen under one roof. He established his own practice in 2016.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) from Saoinn Architect of people and works at a site in Tanarimba, Pahang, Malaysia.
This is the first part introduction of the series on "inclusive education" prompted by recent social media reports of accusations of discriminatory practices by institutions of higher learning to deny disabled persons who are qualified to take some university courses. I had the experience of being trained by a blind master trainer in 2000, in a "social mobilization" course organised by UNESCAP and I know of 3 blind architects. This is an issue close at heart due to myself getting visually impaired now due to a degenerative disease, and the challenges are real, but we need to study further how educational practices could create a more inclusive learning environment, even in applied sciences courses such as architecture.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo of the author testing a ramp at the universal design bus stop designed by the author and the team of designers from ZaSve @ UM Innovations SB
What is the fundamental difference and similarities between a building and a furniture? Some of the characteristics we can guess correctly and some are not obvious. Why is it important for the student of architecture to design and build a furniture? One answer could be that it's impossible for the student to design and build during their school program, as there is a set curriculum to follow and much of it is producing the concept on paper or digital drawing only. In this podcast, we will introduce the issue of a "design problem" which is essentially a "concept", that will be discussed even further in future podcasts.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Art work is the cabinet design of ©️ Universiti Malaya, Author: Heng Mindy under first year studio master Asrul Sani Razak's supervision, batch 2020-21
The last in a 3 part series on the site-context issues driven design thesis studio, describing some issues and what are the hurdles and challenges when facilitating and moderating the year-long academic program (36 weeks in total), hence the focus on the studio masters team. How do we create the momentum and motivation to keep the students focus in this process and how much in sync the tutors team need to be in order to get the students to be on time with their design process in order to get a more satisfactory outcome.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Art work in podcast is a photo taken by Pacilia TSK in 2011 of the studio masters team discussing at the end of the final presentation.
This podcast session concentrates on the design thesis studio learning experience, the importance of the design studio philosophy and the studio masters team. Theory and Practice goes hand in hand. And the learning experience for the student of architecture should reflect theory and practice that blend together. We need to focus on the design process and how it is important for the architecture student in the final year via the design thesis to go through all the process right until the detail design stage. (See artwork diagram)
Why do we do the context specificities / site-context issues driven approach?
- Limited time to learn for a year
- Testimony of competence
- Theory applied through practice
- Confidence to start as a graduate architect (with a strong approach)
- Able to get to detail design stage early even at week 3; average week 5 and latest week 7 (mid sem) of Semester 2.
- Design problems focused on the site issues, less hypothetical
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Art work in podcast is the diagram by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob called the design process diagram for all architecture design studios at UM School of Architecture
Diagram © Copyright: Universiti Malaya, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Further to the previous podcast discussion on site, type and issues, three main factors for design thesis projects, I deliberated in this podcast, on the "site-context issues driven design thesis project" ( context specificities ) which is based on two batch of students, 2018-19 and 2019-20, based on the area of Kampung Kerinchi and Petaling Jaya Old Town, respectively. This descriptive analysis illustrated the third way of design thesis process where you start with the site first, and the project titles will reveal from the site analysis to the students. The best way to do this approach is to work in a group rather than on your own. Since becoming a design thesis program studio masters since 2008, I came to realized that this approach is the most satisfactory design process to build confidence (for the student) for a year long design thesis program for the final year (Master of Architecture) in our school of architecture, but this approach has it's detractors. However, let us learn from this experience and much of this content will be discussed on a Clubhouse app event on "Theory in the design studio work" on Sunday, 20 June 2021, at 8:30 pm (MYT). For example, why it built their confidence and what were the important building blocks.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (artwork) of Unit 2 (Muse) cover photo for the exhibition at https://www.umarchitecture.net/muse-studio
Gearing up to this Sunday, 8:30 pm date 20 June 2021, on Clubhouse app, where I will be hosting a session on further explanation of "theory in the design studio work", this podcast, I gave a brief explanation of what is a design thesis? Namely touching on: site, type and issue, which is more important in a design thesis? Which one should we start with first? Find a site first and study it or find a building type first and site later or find an issue and relate to a type or site? It will always be about these three things and why, not understanding the design thesis and the complexities each one of these present, will make the design problem half-bake and the design thesis concept weak. This will be further explained in the clubhouse event and another podcast soon.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo of screenshot after wrap up session for UM Unit 2 design thesis batch 2020-21 on 16 June 2021 (courtesy of Ar Sarly Adre Sarkum, studio master)
I prepared a script and discussed further on the topic of the Application of Theory in Design Studio Work - Part 2. In this session, I further explained the questions made earlier and defined what is concept and theory and the point about the importance of the narrative to explain the concept and that is the closest to having theory being applied in the studio project. Obviously there is a difference in terms of maturity and guidance needed if a full time tutor (coach) need to deal with a design thesis student compared to a second year student, and at any level the student can deal with theory. More guidance is needed at the first year level obviously. There are topics in this podcast explained which can be unpacked further in future podcasts and clubhouse events.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) of Eva Liew's poster (design thesis batch 2018-19)
I'm discussing “The application of theory in the studio design work (60 min)” on Sunday, 13 Jun at 8:30 PM MYT on the clubhouse app. However, on 12 June 2021, I had the great opportunity to meet many people in an Ar. Lok Wooi moderated clubhouse event on "Theory of Architecture in Malaysia", and I took notes and address some points in this podcast, in particular the question raised by Ar Wan Sofie Ishak on the application of theory in the studio design work. In this podcast I discussed about how we coach the students on theory and the importance of the narrative. Hope there will be more points to discuss at the clubhouse event, where I will relate what I learned and am applying now after collaborating in the design thesis studios and second year studios since 2008, with others, especially Kevin Mark Low.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) of screenshot of the students' online crit session
Our 2nd year students are doing an 'empowerment centre with educational facilities' (with community engagement) at Chow Kit, for homeless, stateless and street children, and in a couple weeks is their finals. I am in the last week of getting them to sort out their narratives and detail design. As a recap and to make them focus on their work, today, I went through their powerpoint to help edit their work and explained what is an architecture concept. As this is a feedback session online, the recording is based on my interaction with my students ( 8 of them) and although they don't say anything in the recording (their individual crit comes later), still the podcast has quite a number of pauses and seems a bit disjointed. But I thought it would be a good idea to share this input that I did with the listeners.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) of the whiteboard note on this input today.
Fresh from a Clubhouse event entitled "Malaysian Architecture: The Lack of Theory and Philosophy?", this episode expanded further on two points. (1) Architecture Education curriculum that currently envisions "sameness" of the architecture graduates, lacking in guidance to strengthen the different strengths and identity that the students can develop, while studying architecture and; (2) A reflection on a previous podcast that we started which dealt with an Asian architect inspired from his own architecture tradition, Kisho Kurokawa's Rikyu Grey period (after Michael Gibert's PhD thesis) called "Learning from Kisho Kurokawa: Asian public space is the street!" (Jan 9 2021, Season 4 Episode 2) and why we can look to our archetypes for inspiration to develop our theory and philosophy.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) of Wong Chiang Her's Botanic Gardens design thesis
Detail design can assist with the beginning stages of a design process. At the very beginning, sometimes you find something very compelling that is an insight which could assist with the the design concept. Detail design is used in conjunction with design development that can come later, towards the end of the design process, while studying certain concepts learned elsewhere that would help you to go in depth and working out the design better. However, detail design could happen at the beginning stages at conceptualizing and visualizing stage.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) of "the design process diagram for all architecture design studios at Universiti of Malaya" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Another episode to forge from the previous ones on Building the Design Manifesto, by reflecting on the Louis Sullivan axiom of "Form Follow Function" on the premise of how we currently think about theory affecting practice or vice versa. Some arguments explored to support Sullivan's proposition, especially in this day and age where due to the increase in the aging population, there are current concerns on designing for all users. Looking at building types and what we need to do in our design approaches, at all stages of design. When does that happen (designing in the function comes) in the design process stages of an office design project to be built? When do we look into the function, when we usually design the form first? Just some ideas for us to think about in this series of discussions.
The reference of the Guggenheim museum in New York designed by Frank Lloyd Wright ( who worked with Sullivan) is here: https://www.guggenheim.org/teaching-materials/the-architecture-of-the-solomon-r-guggenheim-museum/form-follows-function
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo taken in 2015, at FAUP (Faculty of Architecture of the University of Porto), at the end of the year review session in the second year studio.
The second episode continues with 'Design with Empathy for the Aging Population', by reflecting on issues that we are facing, referring to Sustainable Development Goals, and zooming on higher education, is where it's at, when student as early as the 1st year will want to learn about universal design principles, independent living concept, disability concept and why it is important to get the basics right at an early stage, being a good designer and learner. This discussion will continue further for those who are interested in architecture education and practice, building up the design manifesto in the future.
Keywords: design, independent living, designers, people, build manifesto, person, barriers, disabled, architecture, living, disability, talk, architect, physical barriers, disabling
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo taken at the end of year show for 'Paradox' design thesis year students at Universiti Malaya in 2019.
The first episode in a new series kicking off the ideas on architecture practice that is to do with 'Design with Empathy for the Aging Population', we explore some key words and themes to understand what are the theories and concerns of the 'functionalists' in design and architecture in the 21st Century. This opinion is also an attempt to bring into the discussion, on how to build the design manifesto or design approach, reviving the functionalist previous ideas in a digital age. We refer to David M. Griffin's master of architecture thesis at Rice University, in 1966 on "The study of functionalist theorists in architecture", an interesting time, where it was in the middle of post modernism ideas and writings and offshoots of functionalist theories such as the Dutch Structuralists such as Van Eyck and Hertzberger. We hope that the design manifesto which may or may not be specific to functionalist theories from the 1960s, which we will build and present later in the year, be of interest to those interested in architecture education and practice.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (Aldo Van Eyck's drawing) found in : http://archinters.blogspot.com/2014/11/case-study-amsterdam-orphanage-aldo-van.html
It's a celebration! I present the 1st Anniversary Short Recap on Talk Architecture looking back and what's in store for the next year. Thank you all for your support!
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) of the achievements so far for Talk Architecture, 2771 downloads and 83 episodes.
This episode signifies the end of season 4 and pronounces the 1st anniversary of Talk Architecture podcast. The special occasion is graced by Huda Nejim Al-Asedi, interviewed in more depth on the Creative Approach in Education (Part 2). Much more than 'communication', it is important for the educator to connect with the student, by "holding the space for their thoughts", and the keyword for educators in this day and age is to "listen", when facilitating the learning and making the interaction more engaging. Interesting insights and stories for us to hear from a young educator such as Huda, who is dedicated to her advocacy.
Huda is an educator and creative entrepreneur. Formally trained as an architect from the University of Malaya and as a teacher from the Teach For Malaysia programme, she has been actively working with various teams for the community, in both rural or urban contexts. She believes in a multidisciplinary approach in designing creative lesson plans and programs for the youth. Her passion is in writing, illustration and visual storytelling.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) by Huda Nejim Al-Asedi
This is a short piece (interlude) to tease further discussion on the topics and themes of "multi-generational living", "lifetime homes" and the like, coming from many clubhouse app sessions that was on similar themes and the latest debate of 'home care' versus 'residential home'. Architects and designers could be interested in this topics, as it's an interesting niche to 'design with empathy' and universal design ideas to be implemented in retrofitting projects or home modifications. Naziaty Mohd Yaacob will be talking more on this in the future (as an extension to architecture education and practice) to entice young graduates and designers to be involved in this niche area, taking into consideration this is also a sustainability issue particularly on social justice and equalities for the ageing population.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) of the showroom for Tuai Residences by Suntrack Development SB with a disabled wheelchair user.
Coming up to the 1st year anniversary of the Talk Architecture podcast, we revisited the Diagram of the architecture design process that was produced right after the COVID-19 pandemic started last year and the lockdown situation that may have affected the usual studio-based learning programs. Some interesting insights were gained and I would assert that there are Pros rather than Cons to the situation, where a more precise desk crit / learning from the peers process can be had for most of the students together rather than few. Students can decide to "tune in" or "tune off" with closer proximity and accessibility to the feedback given by the tutors. And that there were many challenges even before the lockdown where everyone could be present at the studio but have difficulty to listen in crits which others are having.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) of "the design process diagram for all architecture design studios at Universiti of Malaya" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Recently I was given the opportunity to teach Universal Design to architecture students and crit their studio project by asking the students to think more of functionality, designing in detail and considering universal design as an approach to their design. One set of students in the masters of architecture course, for a housing project and another set of students in the second year doing a few projects with the user/s in mind. There is another smaller group of masters of architecture students that is taking the elective course on universal design. I am sharing my observation and opinion on this discussion which is first introduced here for the new season of this podcast. Thank you for listening.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) of 'scribbles on the whiteboard' by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
The first interview with Huda Nejim Al-Asedi, an advocate of a creative approach to education, rather than art education per se, reveals her experience teaching under-privileged secondary school children in rural Sarawak in Borneo, and how a different perspective was needed to peak the curiosity of these children. In essence, the idea of accessibility to knowledge could happen when you create a situation where it's hands-on and practical, rather than the normal approach.
Huda is an educator and creative entrepreneur. Formally trained as an architect from the University of Malaya and as a teacher from the Teach For Malaysia programme, she has been actively working with various teams for the community, in both rural or urban contexts. She believes in a multidisciplinary approach in designing creative lesson plans and programs for the youth. Her passion is in writing, illustration and visual storytelling.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) by Huda Nejim Al-Asedi
Teaser of an upcoming interview with Huda Nejim Al-Asedi, who has the finger on the pulse of "art education", trained as an architect, she has something to say about the "gaps in knowledge" and from her experience as a teacher with a perspective on the global situation, what are the factors to bridge that gap. Huda stressed that she is an advocate of a creative approach to education, rather than art education per se.
Huda is an educator and creative entrepreneur. Formally trained as an architect from the University of Malaya and as a teacher from the Teach For Malaysia programme, she has been actively working with various teams for the community, in both rural or urban contexts. She believes in a multidisciplinary approach in designing creative lesson plans and programs for the youth. Her passion is in writing, illustration and visual storytelling.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) by Huda Nejim Al-Asedi
Are architects also artists? An interview with Noor Mahnun Mohamed (Part 1)
The artist, Noor Mahnun recounted her story from Kelantan, Malaysia to Germany, tracking back to what led her to be an artist. Anum, as she is fondly known, told us how she found herself pursuing 'Fine Arts' although she started as an architect. On reflection, she did not know it then, but her childhood, through her parents' and uncle's influences, her teacher's mediation and circumstances later in her young adult life, led her to where she is now. Listen here to the first part (of a two part episodes) of Anum's story which leads to the concluding interview on her opinion on "Architects are Artists". Yes? No? Let's find out.
Quote on Anum's bio: As a painter she has had several solo and group exhibitions, locally and abroad. She is now delving into botanical illustrations of indigenous plants in relating to the traditional arts and culture of her home state Kelantan, Malaysia and currently is a beneficiary of CENDANA Visual Arts Funding programme ‘Inspire’ with a project titled ‘Botanical Illustrations: Malay Poisons and Charm Cures (J.D. Gimlette)’. This project will be launched at Rumah Lukis in June 2021 with an exhibition titled ‘Racun & Penawar’. Check that out too!
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) by Noor Mahnun, ’Sky Blue’ for Part 1 - 2021, watercolour on paper, 20 x 20 cm
Architects are Artists and are essentially purveyors of good taste: The concluding interview with Noor Mahnun Mohamed (Part 2)
This is our last podcast where we interview our guests on the topic of "Architects are Artists", going back to the first podcast, as far back as October 2020. We wanted to know the different perspectives, and finally, now, Noor Mahnun certainly gave us a lot to think about in this concluding episode by stating a crucial point, that architects are ''purveyors of good taste". Since the architect is in the 'business of architecture', selling their products, surely it must be done in good taste. At the very least, the architect must be discerning and be critical about what is good architecture and what is bad architecture. Anum, as she is fondly known as, talked at length about the foundation course that she conducted at University of Malaya, and how important the architecture student is able to use their sense and sensibilities, which is also the foundation of being an artist. Listen in to know more!
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) by Noor Mahnun, 'Aureolin’ for Part 2 - 2021, watercolour on paper, 20 x 20 cm
Teaser on an upcoming interview on "Architects are Artists" by a well-known artist,
NOOR MAHNUN MOHAMED who studied at the Hochschule für Bildende Künste in Braunschweig, Germany and graduated with a Masters in Fine Art (1996). In 2000 she was the Malaysian artist-in-residence at Rimbun Dahan, Kuang, Selangor. She was awarded the Italian Government Scholarship in 2003 to study printmaking at the International School of Print and Graphic Il Bisonte, Florence, Italy. In 2005 she was recipient of the Australian High Commission Kuala Lumpur Visual Arts Residency at Gunnery Studio, Sydney, Australia. She was curator at Valentine Willie Fine Art (2003-2005) and Arts Manager of the Rimbun Dahan Art Residency programme (2006-2012) in Kuang, Selangor. She has taught Art Criticism and Professional Studies at the Malaysian Institute of Art, and Visual Communication and Design courses at the Department of Architecture, Faculty of Built Environment, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur. She was granted the Asian Public Intellectual Fellowship (2012-2013), a programme funded by the Nippon Foundation Grant, which she spent in Japan to research printmaking. As a painter she has had several solo and group exhibitions, locally and abroad. She is now delving into botanical illustrations of indigenous plants in relating to the traditional arts and culture of her home state Kelantan, Malaysia and currently is a beneficiary of CENDANA Visual Arts Funding programme ‘Inspire’ with a project titled ‘Botanical Illustrations: Malay Poisons and Charm Cures (J.D. Gimlette)’. This project will be launched at Rumah Lukis in June 2021 with an exhibition titled ‘Racun & Penawar’.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) by Noor Mahnun, ’Nocturne’ 2021. Watercolour on paper, 20 x 20 cm
An Interview with Low Pey Sien, an art curator at Kongsi KL and freelancer, trained as an architect, graduated with a B.Sc. in Architecture from University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, with interests in making film documentaries and photography, shares her view in this first part of the afternoon chat on "Architects are Artists", which meanders to "Architects are Scientists" and end up with "Artists can be a good architect" (in the 2nd and concluding part).
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) by Amirul Rahman
The second part and conclusion of the interview, with Low Pey Sien, an art curator at Kongsi KL and freelancer, trained as an architect, graduated with a B.Sc. in Architecture from University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, with interests in making film documentaries and photography, shares her view in this first part of the afternoon chat on "Architects are Artists", which meanders to "Architects are Scientists" (1st part) and end up with "Artists can be a good architect" (in the 2nd part). Interesting insights!
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) by Amirul Rahman
I was at the student's project site today and wondered: Do we build communities around the place or build the place around communities? Is 'space' a too generic a word, and 'place' the better word, providing more context specificity? What is the fundamental characteristics of a place? I would argue for 'nature' and it's essential presence, that provides a sense of place and make possible the communing of a place to occur rather than creating a 'place' for a group of people just to 'hang-out'. How do we create places that provide that sense of communing when we cannot even appreciate nature? In the light of the pandemic and climate change, our awareness of the sense of place, holed up where we are in our houses, and that sense of wanting to go to faraway places, is palpable. But if the place is near, with a lot of destruction to old trees, we are losing that sense of place. (Reading from the Introduction chapter of Alastair Bonnett's 'Off the Map' and pps.org).
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob of a raintree at Jalan Kampung Attap, Kuala Lumpur
Kevin Mark Low speaks on: Liberal Arts education, "Problem-solving is about 'relationships'", 'Open system thinking' rather than just 'system thinking' (which is more on production related), that relates more to 'nature relationships' (natural eco-systems), "whole idea of learning", using metaphors of the viruses, 'Corona vs. Ebola' to illustrate the two different kinds of 'influences' under the 'leadership in architecture' topic. Quoting some references and reading material, and ending with the "examination of relationships in epistemology", you can listen to a lot of stuff from the architecture-based educator.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) from https://architectureau.com/articles/kevin-mark-low-god-of-small-things/
Coming from the Clubhouse discussion on: "Architecture School - was it useful? "
Summarizing the two important points of: 1. Humanities (the lack of it ), which leads to, Liberal Arts education, and; 2. Learning relationships - the importance of mentorship, peer learning and networking, etc. We will ask these questions to Kevin Mark Low in the upcoming interview, very soon.
Quoting from a Liberal Arts college website based in the U.S. that said: "liberal arts colleges provide students with the all-important problem-solving and critical thinking skills. They focus on how to think, not what to think." We would like to know this from Kevin who has had a lot of international teaching experience of architectural design studios and who, himself had liberal arts education.
Let's find out!
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) from https://architectureau.com/articles/kevin-mark-low-god-of-small-things/
"Social Enterprise for Universal Design Solutions" is the topic for our upcoming Clubhouse event starting at 8 pm, Wednesday, March 3rd, 2021, to be hosted by Naziaty Yaacob. An introduction on what is a 'social entrepreneur' or social enterprise, exploring the subject of 'problems in society', becoming a social entrepreneur, particularly for academics and architecture students, system thinking, and how to build a prototype, including definitions and terms relating to disability, universal design and the Malaysian eco-system of social entrepreneurship, will be discussed for the first time. We hope to find out who are interested and create a network of people from the different sectors of university academics and students, fresh graduates, industry, government and NGOs / individuals. Input will be gained from the participants, including home modifications and accessible transportation ideas.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) of the floor pattern found in Raub town centre, taken by Naziaty Yaacob
We discussed this topic on 24 February 2021 at 8 to 10 pm, at a Clubhouse app event: "Architecture School - was it useful?", and as I mentioned, the intention was to find topics for further discussion, and the following summary, which I expanded in the podcast, and based on the quotes from the participants (speakers) were mainly;
1. Humanities study in university, and,
2. Learning Relationships.
The former is more about Liberal Arts courses such as literature and ancient text, apart from philosophy, and the latter is on mentoring, peer-review and networking. There were other topics which we find out how to discuss them in a bigger picture or select them to be a podcast interview session.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) the section of Naziaty Yaacob's design thesis in 1990 entitled: The Quranic Studies Institute in London
You are welcome to join a discussion at 8:00 PM (Malaysian Time) on 24 February 2021 via the Clubhouse app. I am moderating and hosting the discussion on: Architecture School - was it useful? The purpose is to find out: 1. Content for my future podcast; 2. The questions that we need to ask regarding architecture school. This podcast is broadcasting on the upcoming event via the Clubhouse app, if you would like to join.
It is important to hear the voices and young graduates thoughts and feelings about the architecture school, as they would provide the real outcomes (and evidence of their learning outcomes) having been the ones who had to endure and learn from the architecture school. Themes and patterns of these thoughts would be really useful for us to know, in order to provide better content and explore research in the area of architecture education.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) taken of a site visit done at UM campus on 13 July 2020, Unit 2 design thesis.
Since the last discussion on this topic on 24 January 2021, we had the opportunity to attend the NUS Design Pedagogy Lecture Series - "Enhancing feedback for students' learning: An evaluation of feedback methods used within the design" and a lecture by Dr Charlie Smith of Liverpool John Moores University. Peer review needs to be moderated and done in a formal way rather than just "peer review activities" or informally done, and leave the students to their own devices, as I mentioned earlier. We discussed some important points from what we learned from the sharing, by quoting from the Dr Smith's slides and reading from an abstract of an article shared by him. We hope to implement peer reviews in the upcoming studio and share later in the year of the learning outcome, good or bad. Let's continue this important conversation on architectural design education.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) of a screenshot taken of an online studio session on 7 April 2020, Unit 2 design thesis.
Paul Nickson Atia, a full time artist and part time architectural designer and educator, seems to embody the very notion of an "architect who is an artist". From his early formative years to his current projects, the interview and dialogue evolved seamlessly from art to architecture and back to art. In a personal and engaging manner, Paul touched on design philosophy of diversifying architectural practice to lessons learned before in architecture school and expressions of his art, thus Paul takes us into a journey of what happened before and what might come next. Architecture is his first love, he maintains, so why this absorption into art. Is it temporary or Part 2 architecture school is still in the cards? Paul's example, represents someone who really need to find out and express his 'obsession' and see where it leads him (as in the case with his solo exhibition of 'Forms of Prayers' in 2019-20). Good luck Paul on your projects. Hope to get an in-depth interview later on as suggested in this interview, delving deeper into one of the sub-topics, but for now, there is enough to suggest that, the 'architect is an artist'.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) in podcast called: "Obsession; O, Perpetual", 2019 by Paul Nickson Atia
"One forms and reforms, affirms and reaffirms; perpetually, cerebrating
over one’s hope, desire, and faith of being - what gives?"
Paul Nickson Atia (b. 1992), quoting the above statement, is a young artist from Kuching, Sarawak and currently based in Kuala Lumpur. Upon completing his degree in
Bsc. Architecture at University of Malaya (UM), Paul went on to practice at PORT25, a local architecture firm and as a part time lecturer at Taylor’s University School of Building Design for several years before turning his artistic pursuit towards drawings, paintings,
and installations. Paul now divides his time between art practice and teaching Design Thinking and Introduction to Spatial Design at Taylor’s College.
Paul is having an on-going exhibition, which we will ask him what it is about. As his former tutor, I would be interested to know some personal stuff like: why did you take architecture, why not go straight to art and design course? and; when did you know in Part 1 or after that, being an architect and pursuing Part 2 is not for you / or you still think of doing it in your future plans? Apart from discussing with Paul, the theme: Architects are Artists.
Do listen to this interview, coming soon.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) in podcast called: "Obsession; O, Perpetual", 2019 by Paul Nickson Atia
Amna A Emir, designer, architect and mother, and a director at Neuformation, discusses her time at architectural schools UTM and the AA, on the importance of architectural education and practice and how the architect need to realise the importance of creating meaning in their works, like what artists do. The inter-disciplinary discourse at the AA school of architecture, as the place to have the "convergence of a laboratory of thoughts", learning with the critic and diploma unit master, Jeff Kipnis, and being exposed to artists such as Jasper Johns, exploring the theme of "impermanence in phenomena", Amna realised the importance of conveying a "sense of meaning" in architecture, where we also learn from many artists and the idea of authenticity. From theory to practice and back, touching on the design studio learning, we hope that this podcast will give us some ideas on this topic of "Architects are Artists".
Quote, by Jasper Johns: "Make something, a kind of object, which as it changes or falls apart (dies as it were) or increases in its parts (grows as it were) offers no clue as to what its state or form or nature was at any previous time. Physical and Metaphysical. Obstinacy. Could this be a useful object?"
-- quoted in “Jasper Johns, Writings, sketchbook Notes"
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) in podcast called: Corpse pose view by Amna A Emir
Architect's are Artists: Teaser on an Interview with Amna A Emir, architect, designer, mother.
We will discuss on this topic with Amna who shared the following quote, by Jasper Johns: "Make something, a kind of object, which as it changes or falls apart (dies as it were) or increases in its parts (grows as it were) offers no clue as to what its state or form or nature was at any previous time. Physical and Metaphysical. Obstinacy. Could this be a useful object?"
-- quoted in “Jasper Johns, Writings, sketchbook Notes"
I would like to know from Amna, and hope that the listeners will do too, "Why would you say 'architects are artists'?" Is it necessary for architects to be aware of different perspectives and how can they accommodate different thoughts on architecture? Is it necessary for an architect to be an artist as well? What does that quote from Jasper Johns meant to you? Since Amna was with me in the studios all these years, working with our students, what would be a meaningful learning outcome (what the student did) which makes you feel some necessary exploration was done? How did the AA influenced you and was the experience in the AA helping the student to be the artist?
(Possible questions to ask Amna in the interview podcast)
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) in podcast called: Corpse pose view by Amna A Emir
During these times of pandemic strife, we are beset with the conundrum of wanting to embrace online teaching for studio based learning but the essential ingredient of informal studio interaction (problem of social distancing) such as lack of peer review activities is being felt as a crucial missing ingredient in the architectural education experience for the students especially in the lower years. Can we adapt ourselves to make sure though remote we can feel socially connected? Some thoughts on this for us to ponder and we will have a podcast in the future discussing this between us educators.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Photo (art work) in podcast is a non remote studio interaction at UM.
We revisit the diagram that could be applied to any project that deals with a real site rather than hypothetical site or issue, which we introduced in April 27 2020 podcast, where the idea behind the diagram was done in an introductory manner. Now we explained how this design process can work in both the lower years and in the final year, comparing our current second year project with the design thesis project.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Art work in podcast is the diagram by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob called the design process diagram proposed for all architecture design studios for any architectural courses.
Diagram © Copyright: Universiti Malaya, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
We proposed a study on whether Malaysian architects, urban designers and planners refer to precedents of urban shophouses in the inner city streets of Malacca and George Town when coming up with concept and ideas in their work. Based on Michael Gibert's doctoral thesis, Kisho Kurokawa said that: "the difference between Western and Japanese concepts of space is the difference between spatial confrontation and spatial continuity", so do we Malaysian architectural designers think about these theories and put into practice and further that "the Japanese concept of space, on the contrary, reaches out to embrace nature, and to achieve unity and harmony with it, with always a conscious effort made to allow inner and outer space to inter-penetrate", so is that similar to our streets? I believe that the Malaysian precedents mentioned provided this sense of scale, intimacy, sense of proportion and materiality when I walked on those five-foot way and entering in and out those shophouses. Kurokawa also said: Asian public space is the street (no spatial or functional clear demarcations), and I felt that too when walking around in, it's close up and personal, but does that inspire Malaysian designers at all?
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
This podcast marks a new series on the investigation on architecture design processes in 'design thinking' starting with the concept of 'spatial awareness' in the architecture discipline and finding similarities in psychological meditative technique relating to mindfulness or being mindful. Emphasis is on the importance of "doing the thinking" and understanding more about what is going on when that happens. This further helps to define further what is 'space' in architecture.
© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Is designing and producing architecture a political act? Or are architects merely serving the client and the building they had done has nothing to do with politics. (That is what Patrik Schumacher, a star architect suggested). When architects and urban planners and other professionals need to deal with issues on sustainability together, are they collaborating to create a better society, hence is a 'political gesture' ( our counter argument).
Another factor is designing for social equity.
Dr. Robert Bullard, climate justice pioneer and Distinguished Professor of Urban Planning and Environmental Policy at Texas Southern University in Houston, states that architects and urban planners need to tackle social challenges with an interdisciplinary team approach.
“Today, there are a lot of projects dealing with issues around sustainability, climate resilience, walkability, and equity. But if the architects don’t build equity and health into the framing for these projects, you will get more gentrification and more exclusivity. You’ll get more places that are somehow islands – that don’t provide any heterogeneity in terms of ethnicity, in terms of income, in terms of kinds of occupations of the people who live there,” he states in an interview.
© 2020 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Art work in podcast is elevations by Wong Chiang Her on his Old Town Botanic Gardens design thesis project 2019-20
Drawing © Copyright: Universiti Malaya, Author: Wong Chiang Her
A brainstorming session based on the outline we set out for the book on the proposed working title of: "Re-examining community architecture: site specific issues in local context situations", we discussed on the points we started with and how the podcast contents will help us greatly on writing this book. We relate this to the audience (our listeners) in anticipation to getting the first draft done by the end of the year (which is a delay!), but we keep on pushing to get it done and when we get to the first draft (70%), this will help us to push for the end of this journey. (Quoted from the podcast interview with Yasmin Naziha Hazizulden, which artwork is also featured here).
Architecture should enable and strengthen human connections – a key condition in creating resilient communities to face the 21st century catastrophes. How should we translate our concerns in the work that we do as studio tutors in the architecture design studio projects? This is the central thesis for the Unit 2 studio of the Master of Architecture (M Arch) design thesis studio projects, consisted of twenty-five (25) final year students from 2018 to 2020. The students collaborated to offer the design solutions based on their meticulous study of the site contexts in a ‘context specificity’ approach, focused on deriving ‘specific solutions for specific problems’, *that included many hours of site observations as well as interviewing members of the two communities, in the 2018-2019 program at Kampung Kerinchi, Kuala Lumpur and in 2019-2020 program at the old town Petaling Jaya (section 1, 2, 3 and 4). Proposals were derived from the study of both areas, within local and communal private and public realm including religious buildings, markets, schools, housing, adaptive reuse of old buildings, hospital and health-care buildings, transportation buildings, day care and recreational facilities, all based on a site-context issues driven approach. A presentation to the local authorities, councilors and residents were presented at the end of each year. The studio were led by the architectural practitioners Kevin Mark Low and Lisa Foo with the University of Malaya academic, Naziaty Mohd Yaacob, as collaborators to the students’ design process for the year-long academic program.
This is a conclusion to the series on 'Re-examining community architecture: with site specific issues in local context situations'. The podcast is based on the essay submitted to the organisers of the International Forum for Architecture Thesis Design in Taiwan & Southeast Asia 2020 , National Cheng Kung University in Taiwan, in partnership with the Taiwan Ministry of Education.*
There are four aspects that is needed in order to create the architect that possesses social-consciousness and it starts at architectural school. In conjunction with the upcoming international webinar on "Reclaim the City" on Friday, 20th November 2020 which is the second in a series jointly organized by USM and DSLU, I will speak on the architect's role in righting and designing with empathy for all and creating inclusive design in the cities. I am suggesting that as an architectural education activist, the training of the architect needs to be oriented to a more site-context driven approach in the architectural design studios rather than focusing on form-making processes or architectural fantasies projects. I will introduce the four aspects of: activist, enabler, collaborator and enterprise to be main proponents of the model of the architect in the 21st century, for the betterment of the society.
The use of 'sketch-up' digital software by architecture students short-cutting the skills development, rushing it from 2D to 3D, due to the lack of time to design, is the "one of the crucial problems" in architecture education. The 2D (plan) need to be read and design together with 3D every step of the design process. Skills of manually drawing axonometric from plan and one point perspectives on the spot are essential skills. This issue need to be dealt with by architecture educators and I would argue causes two problems in the future; one is the lack of skills in designing, together with the lack of theoretical learning, resulting in lack of confidence going into employment; and secondly, the reliance on digital tools resulting in the lack of designing and thinking skills in the architecture profession as a whole, thus not able to command in the construction industry or be a player in making decisions with other professions, as "design" skills is relegated to only thinking of buildings dressed up in green. Thus other professionals do not think of architects as the leader in a consultant team in essence as architecture is just like "building". This lack of critique on the issue of architecture education on the real problems of design skills in schools of architecture must be addressed. This podcast is just an observation piece on this issue, based on final year students and second year students in the last year. We would like to continue with this topic in future podcasts.
© 2020 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Readings from Gottfried Semper on "ornament and pattern making" and Christopher Alexander on "form and context", together with learning from vernacular architecture and the ideas that shaped our private realm can actually give ideas on how to solve the design problems in the public spaces and put together a better fit and more harmonious designs for urban designers and architects. This is just an initial discussion to think about how to solve the problems in public spaces in a different way. This is in keeping with the inclusion agenda and designing with empathy for all.
The Architect has a role to play in righting and designing with empathy for all and creating inclusive open space in the cities. That is the premise for the talk that will be given in an upcoming international webinar on "Reclaim the City", the second in a series jointly organized by USM and DSLU, which I will deliver for 15 minutes. This is a preview of that talk in which I am suggesting that as an architectural education activist, the training of the architect needs to be oriented to a more site-context driven approach in the architectural design studios rather than focusing on form-making processes. However this preview focuses more on the bigger picture rather than specific training courses to add to the webinar discussion. (Artwork photo is Saifull Yusop's presentation in Architalent 2019 on his design thesis of Habitable Waste Infrastructure).
Why did we create a collaborative learning environment where the architecture students need to be challenged comprehensively, covering all bases including be able to read the whole building from the plan. You cannot do this by teaching students to design from software. Students are builders of architecture not merely design a building and wrap it with green. As early as possible, students need to learn theory of architecture and references from the past to help them practice reading architecture from plans thus making them confident to move forward and tackle the next project, with a methodology of design that is recognisable. To be able to critic with proper architectural language and vocabulary and not merely letting the computer design for them. Being adaptable to consider and decide with criticality is essential for the student of architecture to gain confidence in their vocation. (The artwork is by Cheryl Yew who completed her final design using manual drawing technique).
I would like to argue that Architects are Artists, ‘artists with a background of science’ (Pandikar, 1959). I take some theories from Ismail Faruqi's 'Cultural Atlas of Islam', Gottfried Semper (19th century philosopher), Christopher Alexander's 'Notes on the Synthesis of Form' and Colin Davies' book on 'Introduction to architectural theory's chapter on 'Truth'', as the basis for this argument. I would take precedents from phenomenology and the non-architects' architecture of the vernacular tradition, houses and shops, from the 19th and turn of the century right up to the 1930s in Malaysian towns and cities (for the Malaysian audience). The unself-conscious approach in design that uses 'sense and sensibilities' using patterns that have been there for centuries will make a better fit when we design, be it as an architectural student or an architectural designer in practice.
© 2020 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Art work in podcast is the conceptual drawing by Wong Chiang Her's 'Spine Variations', UM design thesis, 2019-2020
Drawing © Copyright: Universiti Malaya, Author: Wong Chiang Her
The debate arose in India, when Professor Paknikar in a 1959 seminar on architecture practice said: With the increasing influence of science and technology, they (architects) are termed as ‘scientists with a background of art’ rather than ‘artists with a background of science’. This sets off the discourse on the importance of architectural theory and how there is a difference between designing architecture than merely, buildings. The concerns that architecture theory is not the basis in which architecture student thoughts grow from suggests the confusion in recognising architecture, together with the lack of critical thinking amongst architects. Passing of a building cladded in sustainability / green features does not make it architecture, if it is merely dressing and posing as architecture, with little narrative and ticking off boxes for sustainability criteria, for example. This lack of debate and not creating a nurturing ground for debate in Malaysia on architectural theories and philosophies reflect a lot of what architecture schools are not doing in teaching the foundation of the architectural thoughts and theories. Where does the problem lie if we do not care to have this important discourse? Some thoughts are being discussed in the podcast.
© 2020 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Art work in podcast is by Liew Yee Hua, UM design thesis 2018-19
Drawing © Copyright: Universiti Malaya, Author: Liew Yee Hua
If you are an examiner and you need to evaluate an architecture studio curriculum of a school of architecture, how would you go about it? Should you evaluate the poor (just passed) student, the average student or the best student? And how do you benchmark the performance of that school of architecture compared to other schools? This is an opinion piece on what to look for when you critically appraise students architectural design work.
Further discussion on the issues of the social responsibility of an architectural educator or an academic that teaches architecture design, reflections based on the article by Kimberley Kramer on the topic of "Social Responsibility in Architecture Education" (2012) . This discussion focused on the policy and implementation by a country's architect board (on accreditation) and how an educator implements the policy or idea of social responsibility, specifically the three aspects of (1) Responsibility to consider the needs of communities and the wider public; (2) Ethics and; (3) Civic engagement through public service. These aspects are apart from "environmental sustainability". Artwork is by Yasmin Naziha's design thesis project of the Kampung Kerinchi Secondary School (2018-2019).
The concluding episode on the future of education and the changing role of universities. What is the pace of learning and how we perceived learning, that could make universities as what we see now, obsolete. Reflecting on being a Part 1 graduate doing practical training in London in an office, 5 minutes walk away from the AA school's evening lectures, and how that is a similar situation right now, that we could emulate. Just a frank discussion from an academic's perception on what is happening now and what could be happening in the near future, in the context of the architecture graduate.
I quote Mr Tan Eng Chye, the President of the National University of Singapore: The pandemic has brought a crystal clarity to the role that universities play. To find solutions to humanity’s most pressing problems, we need talented individuals who have the breadth and depth of knowledge and skills, the ability to synthesise and think across conceptual and technical boundaries, and the dedication to work swiftly and efficiently.
The subject on the changing roles of universities and in particular schools of architecture, when coping with the pandemic, and the relevance of universities is discussed in a matter-of-fact way, taking into account of merges, the academic universe, being competitive, being relevant and basically trying to come to terms about what is really going to happen, and how graduates now need to see what university education is offering them, whether enough or not, to meet the challenges of the future.
What is "beyond architecture"? Why was the Part 1 architecture degree important for a person who undertook it? Low Pey Sien felt that her experience studying architecture in Part 1 (BSc in Architecture) course was essential in her current growth and development although she is taking her time to decide whether to do the Part 2 course. She is currently working with KongsiKL as an Art Manager and is serious about her craft in curating art programs and does not feel the need to continue her study at the moment. Pey Sien was one of the best students in her batch and many of her friends had completed their Part 2 (M Arch) course earning better salaries working with companies, but Pey Sien has other ideas for herself. This interview unpacks a perception that is not common and reveal the inner struggles that Pey Sien is dealing with the family and society's expectations of our youth, giving a critical eye to how one deal's with expectations. This is the first session with Pey Sien and keep a lookout for the next session, where we find out about more insights from our architecture graduate, who sees things differently, and chose the road less traveled.
A brief teaser before the big interview with Low Pey Sien, University of Malaya's Bachelor of Science in Architecture Part 1 Graduate who is now an Art and Craft Manager at KongsiKL. I asked her "why aren't you continuing your architecture course for Part 2?". One of our best students, gave a "teaser" answer with promise to tell all in a future interview, coming soon. Please check out the teaser and listen to this "teaser".
Thinking out loud on the issues of the social responsibility of an architectural educator or an academic that teaches architecture design, reflections based on quotes from Kenneth Frampton's book Modern Architecture: A Critical History, particularly the chapter on the Bauhaus. This discussion is purely reflections which will in turn be more focused on the current state of architecture education in the Malaysian context. Artwork is by Arnida Ros's design thesis project of the Kampung Baru Muslim Cemetery (2016-2017)
Irfan Mahzan's honest opinion on what had transpired in his design thesis journey in 2019-2020, on how he left it late to get the concept right in semester 2, where he did the UiTM PJ Old Town, School of Built Environment. The criticism centred on the role of higher education institution such as UiTM, and the blue and white collar workers knowledge and skills. Touching on the pedagogical aspects of the construction professions such as civil engineering, and how theory and practical should be as learned together and not just theoretical learning only, the new campus design (adapted from the old UiTM site) was given a new perspective on learning by making the buildings and external spaces as experimentation sites on all aspects of the learning syllabus for future engineers. Prototyping of construction parts and testing them in the campus, will then be applied at Petaling Jaya old town to make the town better. Listen to the interview to get the lowdown on Irfan's design thesis journey. And check out the drawings and description here: designthesis.wordpress.com/2020/08/31/irfan-mahzans-uitms-school-of-built-environment-pj-old-town/
TEASER Introduction!
We will interview Irfan Mahzan on his design thesis project: UiTM PJ Old Town, School of Built Environment. The sad state of neglect is pervasive in PJ old town, where Irfan mentioned about "how old spaces are not utilized", reflected on the state of the campus at Jalan Othman. For the design thesis, the focus was on higher education and how in Malaysia it has to transform from just producing graduates to having quality thinkers. This is apparent by the number of graduates compared to other larger countries. The issue of the two aspects of the working class of blue and white collar workers, whereby the former is to do with hands-on, tactile education and this when combined with the theory for the university students will determine a more practical design-orientation that engineer prototypes with their knowledge learned in the classroom. The learning by theory and testing within the campus boundaries (with the traditional classrooms) but the application will be applied outside to regenerate and make PJ old town vibrant and working again. The outdoor classrooms in the campus includes the "monsoon drain classroom" to the "railing classrooms" and others. The campus concept will assist the students with the understanding and knowledge that goes beyond theory to the proof of product concept with their prototypes to be applied.
A critical piece of a story, where the designer started by asking the pertinent question of "what do we do with an under-utilized high rise building", Wong Joe Yee from the 2019-2020 design thesis batch, did what he needed to do. He designed the Vertical Neighbourhood Shared Space, taking the Menara Mutiara, a 13 storey building, and transforming it into a place for the community at Petaling Jaya Old Town, for his year long design thesis project. In this must-listen to interview, he gave the account on his experiences struggling with the design concept for most of the year and finally during the MCO (Movement Control Order), only managed to find the breakthrough in semester 2, that helped him focus to complete the project until the end, by the consolidation of the existing programs from the site around for different groups of people and then, salvaging exercise of existing materials from the deconstruction of the building and surrounding demolished buildings. Working with a high-rise typology, he explored and manipulated voids, after leaving only the main structure and lift core intact, working with volumes, space and details to create the idea of a "vertical park" that connects all shared spaces in order to solve the problem of an under-utilized high-rise and break the trend of "not just another mall". Do listen to Joe Yee's design thesis journey to know more.
© 2020 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Art work in podcast is the section by Wong Joe Yee design thesis project 2019-20 named Vertical Neighbourhood Shared Space
Drawing © Copyright: Universiti Malaya, Author: Wong Joe Yee
INTRODUCTION TEASER! Watch out for the next interview with Wong Joe Yee on his design thesis project called: Vertical Neighbourhood Shared Space at Jalan Othman, Petaling Jaya.
We will discuss about how in the year long 2019-2020 project, Joe Yee conceptualized at once: (1) adaptive reuse of a high rise building that is under-used and unpopular thus rejuvenating the use of the building for the existing tenants; (2) creating a socially significant focal point for the community; (3) green spaces and seamless connectivity with a "vertical park" concept and; (4) design approach to re-use old materials from the existing building and other buildings being demolished in the area.
For example, Joe Yee studied the existing ecosystem of the neighbourhood, its character and specific needs of each stakeholders (residents, nursing home older residents, orphanage teens, school kids, university students, migrant workers, office workers, and shop owners) and find what’s lacking and thus coming up with the programs of shops/ eateries, open spaces/park, hobby related facilities and hostel accommodations.
This is what I discovered at FAUP (Faculty of Architecture of the University of Porto) in 2015 when I did the Erasmus Mundus exchange programme. The "architecture design process" is not confused with the "art process" in the first year course, unlike in many other schools of architecture. This is my kind of school!
Where else should I have went in search of the roots of architecture but in Porto. In terms of architectural heritage and education, FAUP, is definitely not old school but a fervent follower of the modernist tradition. I had many discussions with each of the year’s studio tutor at FAUP. I am very much an admirer of FAUP's architecture curriculum. My criticism is that a school of architecture like University of Malaya should immediately start with an architecture process or the very least (referring to FAUP's first year projects) artistic process of a hypothetical site with a scale to it. At FAUP, the learning process is step by step rather than complicated in the beginning, directly working with models and the material, in dealing with space. The first year studio master, Mario explained about how the first projects helped to provide for the basic design skills, seamlessly taking abstract (artistic) exercises and converting into a more architectural design process. (Read my blog explanation: at https://designthesis.wordpress.com/2020/08/15/an-academics-journey-in-search-of-the-roots-of-architecture/
Francis Poh in his interview talked about how being sensitive to "gender" issues helped him design the Petaling Jaya All Girls' Primary Schools. After exploring Section 4, in the earlier stages of the design thesis, he discovered the interesting waterways network that created pedestrian linkages and shortcuts for workers and students in that area. That led him to the dead-end at the boundaries of SK Assunta and SK Selangor, two schools at opposite sides of the monsoon drain which had the potential to create a concept to integrate both schools to benefit from the natural habitat along this waterway. The shared programme by creating a canteen and the library along this stretch provided a certain level of natural surveillance to protect the girls’ students from unwanted events. Francis also created a new public link proposed to connect Tun Tan Cheng Lock Nursing College and PJ Sports and Exercise Park which eventually benefits nurses, doctors and residents staying in Section 4, providing a better permeability in the neighborhood to Section 3 side.
Francis explored the special study on the classrooms layout based the 'gender-specific' needs of the female students. Additionally, the 'tropical architecture' approach and language of the design thesis responded to the hot and tropical climate in Malaysia through environmental science systems. The monsoon drain is being looked into thoroughly as it can serve as a model for another monsoon drain in other parts of Malaysia. Francis concluded the valuable learning he gained from the studio on "solving specific problems in specific solutions" contextually. Listen to the podcast interview and check out his drawings at this link: designthesis.wordpress.com/2020/08/18/francis-pohs-pj-old-town-all-girls-primary-schools/
Students from time to time would choose to do 'school of architecture' for their design thesis topic, and obviously all of us, architectural educators would love to say something about it. I came across the name Hannes Meyer, the 2nd director of Bauhaus as I was reading about both topics (him and the school) and I quote from this blog: Graham McKay, "Architecture Misfit #1: Hannes Meyer," misfits' architecture, published on June 11, 2011, accessed on August 15, 2020; and also Kenneth Frampton's chapter on "Bauhaus" (Modern Architecture: A critical history). It is essential to know who was responsible for what, as we may take for granted in terms of the architecture design studio curriculum, and McKay asserted that the more 'artistic' part of the curriculum came from Walter Gropius's curriculum, developed later in Harvard. So we can analyse the existing curriculum that is commonly found in architecture schools all over the world. My criticism is that if we want to learn art and other allied arts apart from architecture, we do it in a parallel manner rather than embed in the first year studio course programs. We need to teach the functional aspects as early as we can such as design with empathy and universal design.
TEASER & PREVIEW OF WHAT'S TO COME! SEASON 3!
COMING SOON - End of August & Early September 2020:
Interviews with the studio masters of Unit 2 Design Thesis Studio where we will chat about the way we conduct the studio programs and the biggest challenges we face and why we run the studio as we did, especially when it comes to site context issues driven projects and context specificity projects from the last two years. We will also interview the external critics and others involved in the project. This teaser features what were the concerns of training and creating the learning environment for Unit 2 design thesis studio from one tutor, focusing on the 5th year as the crucial transitional year between school and architectural practice. And where all the necessary learning / re-learning needs to be done to gain the confidence necessary to start working in the industry.
A reflection on the topic of "Re-examining community architecture: site specific issues in local context situations" provides an introduction to proposing for a case for a new agenda and preparing for the book publication. Referring to the interviews that we had been doing with the graduates from the Kampung Kerinchi batch and the graduating students fresh from finishing i July 2020 for the PJ Old Town batch, this commentary is a filler piece before we wrap up in a few weeks time with the interviews of the designers. The questions we asked the designers included their individual: thesis journey; breakthrough and challenges; how they felt about the team in the studio-based learning including external critics and studio masters / tutors; the design processes and what advice would they give to other students.
INTRODUCTION TEASER on Francis Poh's PJ Old Town All Girls' Primary Schools
This design thesis successfully explored the opportunity that can be done to bring the 2 girls’ primary schools together with a shared programme that is the canteen and the library. It is strategically located along the edge of the monsoon drain to provide a certain level of natural surveillance to protect the girls’ students from unwanted events. Nevertheless, a new public link is proposed to connect Tun Tan Cheng Lock Nursing College and PJ Sports and Exercise Park which eventually benefits nurses, doctors and residents staying in Section 4, providing a better permeability towards the neighborhood.
Francis also focused on the pedagogical aspects of class room design specific to design empathy for the gender, exploring the outside spaces along the monsoon drain where shared facilities of library and canteen are, integrating the natural with built environment, where a lot of technical issues were explored. The architecture approach and language of the design thesis responded to the hot and tropical climate in Malaysia through environmental science systems. The monsoon drain is being looked into thoroughly as it can serve as a model for another monsoon drain in other parts of Malaysia.
Let's listen to the interview podcast with Francis coming soon!
A hidden and unassuming church in Section 4, Petaling Jaya, the Assumption Church was actually a significant first religious building in PJ Old Town, built and established beside the Assunta Hospital. During our walkabout, we stumbled upon it as a unit and Geraldine, a Protestant, took the challenge, by first interviewing the pastor and later did a study on Catholicism, leading to a year long design thesis project from July 2019 to June 2020. The technical study of the building revealed that the church has not undergone major renovations due to the limited land area for expansion and proposed a solution that incorporated a "forest" next to the main prayer hall and creating a bigger congregation capacity. She arguably maintained the "hidden" and now, mysterious (enigmatic) church which totally uses cross-ventilation throughout with the "tropical architecture" feel. Aesthetically, we are curious with this unassuming building. Even in the hall, the columns echoes the "forest of trees" from outside, while you experience a sense of communing as one in nature. The "life and death" concept can be felt in one place, by accommodating the columbarium at the roof area and the prayer hall below. A very accessible, functional and spacious interior design that allows for everyone to move around, very elderly-friendly, indeed, Geraldine has transformed the church into a unified holistic design that is inspiring and sensitively humbling as well, with the huddling circular seating layout. Geraldine related how she had to cope with COVID-19 pandemic situation of online learning midway in semester 2 and how the tutors had helped her deal with the debates and arguments around her thesis, which either you love it or hate it! But a Catholic architect said: he loved it! Do listen in ... Drawings link: designthesis.wordpress.com/2020/08/12/geraldine-bongs-the-assumption-catholic-church-and-columbarium-petaling-jaya/
© 2020 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Art work in podcast is the sectional perspective by Geraldine Bong's design thesis project 2019-20 named The Assumption Catholic Church and Columbarium
Drawing © Copyright: Universiti Malaya, Author: Geraldine Bong
INTRODUCTION TEASER on Geraldine Bong's The Assumption Catholic Church and Columbarium, the podcast interview is coming soon. Do listen in to this teaser, about the exceptional enigmatic design (can we say that for a building) testing our usual beliefs on what a church should look like. A brave attempt to deal with the symbolism and at the same time challenged by technical issues, Geraldine had managed to pull it off.
The Catholic church in Section 4, namely the Assumption Church Petaling Jaya (PJ) was not able to accommodate the congregation, as there is limited land area for expansion and minor maintenance on the old building condition due to building issues. Several other context issues were identified, particularly the social issues (aging community, urban poor, youth migration to other cities), site context issues (adjacent to the church are the hospital, primary school and non-Christian neighbours and traffic congestion issues). As an urban architecture project, the building is significant as part of the master planning in terms of an important node for social and spiritual gathering for the Catholics.
A revival of the 40 year old market to meet current demands yet being self sufficient. Another podcast on Raymond Bu, who loves details, presenting to you The Market Hub, a contemporary local marketplace that still retains the authenticity and core functions of a traditional market located in the heart of Petaling Jaya Old Town. The interview outlines how Raymond dealt with the dilapidated and unhygienic by proposing a renewal to the market that will revive an economic and community focal point by creating a pleasant market space experience by adopting the concept of tropical design approach and incorporating nature and urban farming within to enhance the user comfort. An ecosystem where waste produce from the market is utilized as compost, the fragrance from the vegetation offsets the foul smell of the market, the wastewater from the market is collected, used by the vegetation and the plantation of consumable organic herbs and vegetation creates an edible marketplace. A good accessibility and pedestrian connections creating a permeable and transparent marketplace with strong visual connections, holistic and inclusive space for people with informal events and activities such as pop-up stalls and cultural event to connect the people with the local community and neighbourhood. Drawings can be viewed at: designthesis.wordpress.com/2020/08/05/raymond-bus-the-market-hub-at-jalan-othman-petaling-jaya/
© 2020 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Art work in podcast is the conceptual diagram by Raymond Bu's design thesis project 2019-20 named The Market Hub at Jalan Othman, PJ.
Drawing © Copyright: Universiti Malaya, Author: Raymond Bu
TEASER INTRODUCTION on a highly commended The Market Hub at Jalan Othman, Petaling Jaya Old Town by Raymond Bu. unit 2, design thesis studio, 2019-2020.
The issue here is the relevance of the market building, often called the "wet market" in Malaysia, a social hub especially with a higher than average older persons population in this community. Seen as a sight for sore eyes, due to the bad upkeep and poor state of the existing market building (dilapidated, unhygienic and causes several issues to the surrounding area), instead Raymond proposed a contemporary local marketplace that still retains the authenticity and core functions of a traditional market by reconditioning and extension of the existing market. The new design encourages the modern consumers to visit and shop for goods as well as having the sense of ownership and pride that the stall owners and the neighbourhood once had. The renewal to the market will create an economic and community focal point where user of all ages and backgrounds comes to obtain grocery needs, experiencing the local culture of PJ Old Town, interacting with people and engaging in activities where where it encourages their involvement in and within the marketplace as an active gathering space for the local community.
Tune in here, for the interview and drawings of the concept of the proposed market that creates it's own eco system to maintain and sustain itself. See you soon!
An intriguing interview with the author of the Old Town Botanic Gardens, Chiang Her, expressing his thoughts on his design thesis journey in 2019-2020 session. We felt the concept as one of the most excellent ever done by a design thesis student from UM, however controversially it is a master planning project, which is deemed "lack building" but that is why it is such a good project. How architecture uses the natural environment to create a presence of a "natural structure".
Chiang Her explained that: Petaling Jaya Old Town is the oldest planned township in Malaysia but sadly, nowadays it is been tagged as a “Dead Town”. In fact, the town is not dead at all it just needs some improvements to make it more attractive and charming to live in. In this design thesis, it identifies the following issues: (a) The town is lacking of a formal, open space to dignify its identity; (b) School children are lacking of sufficient opportunity to engage with outdoor and natural education and (c) The KTM tracks on the southern edge is not serving the town efficiently.
From these issues, it derived to the design titled: “Old Town Botanic Gardens” which is a shared common in service of health, education, transportation, outdoor activity and immediate neighbourhood identity. The site contexts including the immediate neighbours, topography and existing programmes are studied and induced a derivation of a series of gardens and architecture which are all connected by a continuous & covered corridor named “The Spine”. The Spine forms the elevation of the whole botanic gardens, but it is more than an elevation, it is an edifice, a series of formal entrances into the gardens. Link to drawings: https://designthesis.wordpress.com/2020/07/31/wong-chiang-hers-old-town-botanic-gardens/
Introducing another urban design and master planning project that proposes to rejuvenate Petaling Jaya (PJ) old town with a Botanic Gardens project for the design thesis batch 2019-2020. Wong Chiang Her's main contention were on the issues of the lack of identity; lack of outdoor and natural environment for educational facilities and the relocation of the railway station (KTM) nearer to the centre of the old town. The solution is shared common in service of health, education, transportation, outdoor activity and immediate neighbourhood identity. Chiang Her will be interviewed regarding the concept of the Spine to lend as an architectural device that uses landscape design and plantings to generate new programs and make alive this vital edge of PJ old town.
A compelling story of Eva Liew's design thesis journey, including her struggles on doing an urban design and master planning project.
Eva Liew identified that the biggest problem was the lack of spaces for recreation, and an urgent need to reclaim the public realm for the people. The road is designed for cars and not for humans. Trying to create a better public environment for the B40 population with the lack of public transportation, Eva chose to prioritise the street environment and solve the complex problems of the street with structures for recreation and in between spaces to add the much needed pocket parks and other community programs.
Eva Liew's Kerinchi Neighbourhood Park Linkage design thesis project was commended by the external examiner at the end of the year, although her project was argued to be a "non architectural project" in the portfolio review session. The examiner said more of urban design and master planning projects should be done by design thesis students. Eva's interview provides an insight to her design thesis journey despite all the setbacks was a very positive outcome for her.
Link to drawings: https://designthesis.wordpress.com/2020/07/28/eva-liews-kerinchi-neighbourhood-park-linkage/
Learning has no boundaries. The design of a school should not have boundaries. The school is part of Kampung Kerinchi. Amirul Hakim Ismar's Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) school is a design thesis project that dealt with the B40 community's problems of kids not interested in education. The image of the technical and vocational school in Malaysia needs to be changed. It is not an "alternative" to the mainstream school, asserts Amirul, but as just one of the choice the student will take. We need to be saying the right things about education. A compelling story of his experience and thoughts, learn more about what Amirul has to say about the project's importance in the context of Kampung Kerinchi and addressing the nation's issue on TVET. The link to the drawings: https://designthesis.wordpress.com/2020/07/25/amirul-hakim-ismars-technical-and-vocational-education-and-training-tvet-school-at-kampung-kerinchi/
© 2020 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Art work in podcast is the site plan & masterplan by Amirul Hakim Ismar's design thesis project 2018-19 named the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET)
Drawing © Copyright: Universiti Malaya, Author: Amirul Hakim Ismar
We are reviving this teaser as the EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW with Eva Liew is coming up next week. Check out Eva Liew's Kerinchi Neighbourhood Park Linkage, a "controversial" project that was debatable whether it is an "architecture" project, but it was a very necessary urban design project to be done for the Unit 2 Design Thesis Studio at University of Malaya's School of Architecture, as it is the bigger picture / master planning solution that deals with the big void of the heart and soul of Kampung Kerinchi. A mostly high-rise and high-density low cost housing with poor facilities for recreation, proper access to streets and social environment were the complexities that Eva dealt with in her design thesis, in terms of transportation, recreation and social spaces. This teaser podcast (last published in May 2020) is a reintroducing the project and we shall have a podcast interviewing Eva on her design process and why she thinks the project is important and what were her challenges when she faced with dealing with the project.
Malaysia's solution to help reduce school drop-outs and employment is the creation of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) school ( believed to have been introduced just recently in the last 15 years), and this teaser provides a glimpse to the issues and design thesis concept that Amirul Hakim Ismar explored in his design thesis project in 2018-19 at Kampung Kerinchi. The street concept is the solution to creating an urban TVET (for school leavers at 16 years old) right in the area of the B40 population (low income earners) where the most important thing for a child is to put food at the table for the family, and due to this pressure, TVET provides the education for a semi-skilled and even skilled work-force, and why not right in the middle of the city where the urban condition is situated, literally next to your house. Something to do with their hands and earn some money and building a small business enterprise right in the school itself, would create a different meaning to the idea of what a school should be to help these kids. Tune in to the interview coming soon.
A sincere viewpoint in this interview with Ahmad Zaldarriaga Sadain’s with his design thesis project of the Kerinchi Market Link undertook to solve a bigger area straddling from the main sites of Kampung Kerinchi to the other side of the highway at Kampung Pasir and beyond to Jalan Klang Lama. (Key – “kampung” is village, “jalan” is road). In order to solve the problems that beset the residents who comprised mainly of the B40 population of mostly low income earners bordering on poverty, people who needed to work at three jobs in a day, struggling with the lack of social protection and care and the lack of nutrition and basic necessities, the Kerinchi Market Link was created with a number of social and economic uplifting programs and connecting accessibility to these facilities, made complete sense. Juggling with the many varied programs, including an agricultural park / urban farm, the technical solutions made at the conceptual level will be leveraged for the people, by a business model to include the Indah Water Consortium land, illustrating a highly impactful investment scenario and not only mere corporate social responsibility. Drawings can be found here: https://designthesis.wordpress.com/2020/07/20/ahmad-zaldarriaga-sadains-kerinchi-market-link/
Ahmad Zaldarriaga Sadain's Kerinchi Market Link is a complex programmatic urban link that connects Kampung Pasir to Kampung Kerinchi and Jalan Klang Lama, including small businesses and enterprises, transportation and agriculture. The project proposed to solve many community problems such as poor living conditions, malnutrition and economic uncertainty. The design proposal at first, looks into the bigger context of Kerinchi. The physical infrastructure allows nearby existing activities and needed facilities such as a wet market and alternative transportation modes to be integrated, forming an active spine for Kerinchi. We look forward to Zee's interview to explain why he did this proposal and what it could offer to regenerate and improve the living conditions, employment and economic activities of Kerinchi.
First Day Special Semester (Pre Design Thesis) Site Visit:
Today's University of Malaya's campus site visit started at 7 am and was in most parts a drizzly rainy affair. We walked from the front of the Law Faculty, to the Faculty of the Built Environment, Faculty of Medicine, chatted at 9:45 am at the University Malaya Medical Centre's Food Court and continued through the Faculty of Engineering, across the garden around the varsity lake, chatted in front of the Library and went pass the Dewan Tunku Canselor (main hall) and ended with lunch in Bangsar. We observed a lot, ask questions and stopped along the way many times, talking about the in-between spaces, relationships, what is missing and much more. In this podcast, we try to summarize the important points by inquiring the "why", "what", "who" questions namely, hoping to start further conversations to assist the studio.
Find here in this refreshing podcast interview, Low Joo Yin's related account, both personal and objective, providing the listener clues to how she interpreted a "client" which at the outset is uncertain as the "local authority", when a street market has to do with the community, it's social-cultural identity and basic needs for household items and food.
As Joo Yin delved further into the project, she discovered it was not just to "sort out" the street market of it's haphazardness, dirtiness, lack of facilities in general and problems of traffic congestion and flow. She kept on visiting the site and found out what people really need, who the real clients are which led her wanting to design for the people and focused on seeing how people would use her design.
Joo Yin stated that a small project or seemingly lack of a large building does not necessarily mean lack of complexities. The system thinking that designer explored in such a project, in terms of logistical flows of three conceptual frameworks of business, transportation and social-cultural aspects in the urban context, challenged her immensely as a graduating architect, and provided a sense of philosophical direction for her approach in her working life later.
The case study of Joo Yin's design thesis, in the 2018-2019 batch, proved how the architect needed to command urban design problems in a very technically-driven circumstance, yet be designing for the community, designing with empathy.
See the drawings here: https://designthesis.wordpress.com/2020/07/11/low-joo-yins-street-market-at-kampung-kerinchi/
The Street Market provides the settings for many aspects of urban life, as a social space, cultural activities, small businesses and enterprises, logistical flows of traffic and pedestrian, processing of waste both organic and inorganic, and other aspects that could either be social-cultural or economic. The local authorities find the street market a nightmare to deal with but like many Malaysians, acknowledges the uniqueness and necessity of this urban entity at the same time.
Low Joo Yin's Street Market at Kg. Kerinchi provokes the idea of complexities in designing such diverse needs and expectations from the sellers and buyers and more so, the local authority and residents around the area, and provides a realistic solution that is commendable by recommending a temporary movable structure that can be collapsible when not needed and extended when there is a heavy downpour or the need to demarcate areas to sell goods. At the master plan level, Joo Yin resolved the street system and re-planned the market for better efficiency and proper operations and management.
This teaser is to remind us on the up-coming interview with Low Joo Yin.
There is a banal argument that is going around with regard to the complexities of a design thesis project. Banality means: the fact or condition of being banal; unoriginality. This goes against the learning outcomes and objectives of the curriculum of a design thesis, in which students should be innovative and explore topics worth examining, often regarding issues, be it site-context based and/or building typology. Any typology under the sun is relevant and worthy in pursuing as long as there are problems to be solved and can be a challenge to the final year student of architecture (equivalent of the graduating architect at Part 2 or Masters of Architecture level). The argument is that a small building is less challenging than a large complex. That is if you debate that the complexities is only the technicalities of quantifying architecture. That 100 feet of soil pipes is more complex that 20 feet of soil pipes. That mechanized and air-conditioning for a 20,000 square feet of building is more complex than a naturally ventilated building of 2,000 square feet. There are so many other factors in designing a building, street environment and park, in terms of environmental, social, cultural, transportation, recreational and many more. Challenges in planning and studying the operational aspects are as challenging to how to detail the roof (which is more of a 3rd year Part 1 level anyway). The clue of how complex a design thesis project is in the word "thesis" and that is setting out with a set of questions and keep on questioning every step of the way regarding the project in the design process. The conversation in this podcast starts a series of discussions on "design complexities". Going back to the curriculum, the debate should shift from the project to the student and ask the question, how ready is the graduating architect is to be challenged in employment?
Two parts: The Client's Brief and The User's Review of PPUM.
An explanation on the importance of the client's brief to an architecture project. It may be simple enough if you have a client to deal with, but who is the "client" for the University of Malaya Campus projects? Of all the stakeholders to the project, which one would have the most impact to them? The student? Their parents? The Board of Directors and top management? The academic staff? Other staff and workers? The local authorities? The second part of this podcast is a brief user's review of Universiti Malaya's Medical Centre (Malay acronym PPUM) which was called the University Hospital in the early years. Where is the demarcation line between the hospital and the faculty?
Next U2 design thesis studio podcast episodes coming up: all 13 students and 3 tutors met online today to discuss about our site visit around University of Malaya campus starting 13th July 2020, the first day of the pre-thesis course and the entire design thesis courses that would take 35 weeks long until June 2021. Here is an account by one tutor and what that tutor thinks (if being a student) the topics interesting enough to be tackled. This episode marks the first intention to do a series of podcasts "action-research" style, meaning, reporting as we go along week by week and from time to time doing impromptu "interviews", or reporting any interesting incidents during the process of design.
A quick 5 minutes update previewing on the next batch 2020-2021 design thesis projects on University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur Campus. 13 students have signed up for Unit 2, and with the studio tutors gearing up for another year of site-context issues driven approach to design, we can expect 13 different projects on dealing with a variety of topics from, redesigning the student union facilities and the library, or maybe redevelopment of the lake area, a few faculties being redesigned, some hostels and connections to the neighbourhood in Petaling Jaya or even Bangsar perhaps. We shall see. The podcasts on this "action research" and "on-going design" would provide for insights and fresh input on aspects of the design thesis approach in-situ and hopefully we can feel the close connections to the design process. These podcasts will start in July 13, 2020 onward for the special semester, while the interviews with graduated and graduating students will still proceed until August 2020.
An in-depth personal account of Yasmin Naziha Hazizulden's Kampung Kerinchi Secondary School design thesis journey, starting with a question when she went to visit the site of a majority of the population of a low income group: "Why are the kid's not in school?" This led Yasmin to question the values of education, outlining social problems found after interviewing the teachers and parents in context, with findings on the problems that beset the community of truancy and students dropping out of school. The future felt bleak and apathy is rife, but what the architect do in this regard? Her proposal of breaking down the walls of perception that the school is a "fortress and alienating" the community by instead bringing the community into the school. The link to her drawings are at: https://designthesis.wordpress.com/2020/06/27/yasmin-naziha-hazizuldens-kampung-kerinchi-secondary-school/
© 2020 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Art work in podcast is the sectional perspective by Yasmin Naziha Hazizulden's design thesis project 2019-20 named The Kampung Kerinchi Secondary School
Drawing © Copyright: Universiti Malaya, Author: Yasmin Naziha Hazizulden
Yasmin, another graduate architect who were part of Unit 2 design thesis studio at Universiti Malaya, batch 2018/19, has a lot to say regarding what she thinks a secondary school education should be like in a B40 (low income) population such as Kg Kerinchi, Kuala Lumpur. TEASER: The design thesis proposal by Yasmin reviews the aspects of urban design and the school typology and how elements in a school can be taken out from inside by creating a layered interface of canteen, small eateries and shops. Yasmin called this public layer enclosing the boundary, the "food corridor" and "living corridor" and this architectural interface acts as a natural surveillance arguably to solve the problems of education, motivating the students and bringing the school closer to the population who constantly worries about surviving day to day, never mind going to school. Let's listen to the interview, coming soon.
An honest talk with Saifull Yusop regarding his design thesis journey; whether that final year of doing the "Habitable Waste Infrastructure" project was worth it, his review on the studio masters and how he had to make a key decision after figuring out the complexities needed to make his thesis a success. His account proved that the site-context issues / community architecture approach set out by the studio master requires the student to set aside pre-conceived early ideas and to embrace the surprise that the site has to offer. We are grateful for Saifull to explain his project and and this is the podcast link and the design thesis drawings are available via this link: designthesis.wordpress.com/2020/06/20/saifull-yusops-habitable-waste-infrastructure/
© 2020 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Art work in podcast is the sectional perspective by Saifull Yusop 's design thesis project 2018-19 named Habitable Waste Infrastructure
Drawing ©️ Copyright Universiti Malaya; Author: Saifull Yusop
This is a teaser for the interview of the designer coming soon. Another graduate architect who were part of Unit 2 design thesis studio at Universiti Malaya, batch 2018/19 will reveal all - his experience doing this highly challenging project and his experience of the design thesis journey .... TEASER: The design thesis proposal by Saiful Yusop dealt with how waste can be managed and made a productive resource by exploring an affordable housing prototype of 80 units per acre located at the B40 population of Kg Kerinchi, Pantai Dalam in Kuala Lumpur, next to the street market at the heart of the heavily populated area where many low cost housing flats are located. The idea of how the waste are separated at source from the kitchen can be processed within the housing complex itself.
A strong mentality and sense of purpose is needed in order to be able to accept any challenges thrown to each and everyone of our students in Unit 2, design thesis studio, so we deal with complex and difficult issues in their architectural design thesis studio program throughout the academic year (final year), thus they will feel equipped in dealing with problems with clients, developers, local authorities, able to do research and development and even be able to be a business person. An all-round set of skills will be needed to prepare them ... (in the light of Liverpool FC becoming “mentality monsters”, I am borrowing this term for this piece).
A DESIGN THESIS JOURNEY
A candid interview with the architectural designer Cheryl Yew's one academic year journey of doing the Kampung Kerinchi Primary School project focusing on the why, what and how of her design thesis journey. We asked on "why she thinks the project is important (personally) and what were the challenges that she faced with dealing with the project". Other content includes, her take on the design thesis tutors' approach in architecture education and studio-based learning; and this informal discussion provides a fresh feel for the approach and we are grateful for Cheryl to give us the insights she shared.
Link to images of Cheryl's project here:
https://designthesis.wordpress.com/2020/05/01/cheryl-yews-kampung-kerinchi-primary-school/
(Apologies for poor audio recording in the first six minutes due to poor internet connection as we were using online meeting tool). (32 minutes long recording)
© 2020 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Art work in podcast is the perspective by Cheryl Yew's design thesis project 2018-19 named Kampung Kerinchi Primary School
Drawing © Copyright: Universiti Malaya, Author: Cheryl Yew
Cheryl Yew's Kampung Kerinchi Primary School can be truly appreciated knowing that a B40 (low-income) population in this area, parents needed to cross the highway in order to send their 6 to 12 year children to get an education. With the right analysis on the urban problem, she was able to identify a site that is very accessible to all, making full use of an unused religious school and a community hall, adapted re-used the land and structures to create a much needed primary school, within convenient walking distance. The Unit 2 Design Thesis Studio at University of Malaya's School of Architecture, while emphasizing on the bigger picture / master planning solution, facilitated the dialogue, discussion and debate for Cheryl to imagine and draw up a school that was submitted for the R.I.B.A. Presidents Medal in 2019. Her approach of a low technology solution, using sustainability concepts, such as ideas on adaptive reuse and use of materials, together with the exploration of the ideal classroom utilizing in-between external spaces to be conducive outdoor formal and informal learning spaces (even including disabled children) created a highly valued learning spaces with minimal cost implications. We shall hear of Cheryl Yew's interview on the why, what and how of her design thesis journey, very soon in our next podcast.
An introduction to the "inter-disciplinary nature of architecture" by discussing based on "architecture design education" referring to some works currently being explored at Unit 2 Design Thesis Studio at UM School of Architecture. We probe and question on: Why does architecture straddle the two main branches of human knowledge (Science and Humanities). It is because Architecture is about the planning, designing and constructing of form, space and ambiance to reflect functional, technical, social, environmental and aesthetic considerations. Of course, the word architecture nowadays also includes other designed systems, especially in information technology (referring to computer architecture). Also, architecture nowadays is not just about perfecting human culture but also about being environmentally conscious, e.g. by making creative solutions to energy and waste problems.
Eva Liew's Kerinchi Neighbourhood Park Linkage was a controversial project that was debatable whether it is an "architecture" project, but it was a very necessary urban design project to be done for the Unit 2 Design Thesis Studio at University of Malaya's School of Architecture, as it is the bigger picture / master planning solution that deals with the big void of the heart and soul of Kampung Kerinchi. A mostly high-rise and high-density low cost housing with poor facilities for recreation, proper access to streets and social environment were the complexities that Eva dealt with in her design thesis. This is a teaser podcast to introduce the project and we shall have a podcast interviewing Eva on her design process and why she thinks the project is important and what were her challenges when she faced with dealing with the project.
This topic of "Re-examining community architecture: site specific issues in local context situations" provides an introduction to proposing for a case for a new agenda on Context Specificity projects, to be the most effective design thesis course for a school of architecture. Referring again to University of Malaya's School of Architecture, we argue that the design thesis unit 2's architecture design studio curriculum is very grounded on real issues and we argue about the definition of "community architecture". This is the first part introduction based on the draft manuscript of a future book publication and in the next podcast we will examine the examples of context specificity projects from the 2018-2019 batch (cohort) students who did their projects in Kampung Kerinchi, near Pantai Dalam, Kuala Lumpur.
© 2020 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Art work in podcast is the poster by Liew Yee Hua for the presentation of the design thesis projects 2018-19 seminar at Kuala Lumpur City Hall.
Poster © Copyright: Universiti Malaya, Author: Liew Yee Hua
This diagram can be applied to any project that deals with a real site rather than hypothetical site or issue. The importance to understand that design process for architecture education programs are cyclical, in four stages, rather than linear. The beginning stage is always about the design brief, given or to be developed by the designer, which also deals with the site visit, analysis and researching the programs. The second stage focuses on starting the proper design process and is always a challenge for the student to INTERPRET the brief, where it is about site planning, design strategies and schematic design. The third stage when dealing with the design development, the student designer needs to deal with the detail design and special studies and this is where the design thesis can be defended properly and the concept will need to be felt in the drawings and models. The part one of this series on architecture design studio curriculum discusses in a introductory manner and other parts of the series will take us to specific interpretations of particular design projects and how the designer managed to come to some solutions and have a favourable and satisfactory outcome.
© 2020 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
Art work in podcast is the diagram by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob called the design process diagram for all architecture design studios at UM School of Architecture
Diagram © Copyright: Universiti Malaya, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob