Semester 4
Design Studio IV
In Semester IV themed “engaging environment and community”, the studio explores design by harnessing environmental qualities through projects with a specific community of users within a given context. The projects involve studies of precedents that showcase responses to environmental conditions and sustainable issues as well as innovative interpretations of the given program. Considerations should be given to the complexity of the program, site topography and vegetation, socio-cultural events, and variety of passive strategies for sustainable design. The design work should contribute to and merge harmoniously with environment and the site, and provide meaningful architectural experience for the community of users.
Building Structure
The module covers the principles and behavior of structural forces and components, which includes trusses, slabs, beams and columns. It also introduces students to structural design, structural analysis, load calculations and diagrams. These knowledge are important for students in producing architectural designs which are aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound.
Building Services
In this module, students will be introduced to services that are commonly provided in buildings, primarily cold and hot water supply, sewerage treatment, drainage and storm water management, electrical supply, fire protection systems, mechanical ventilation, air-conditioning systems and mechanical transportation systems. Students will also be familiar with the basic requirements in planning, coordination and installation of these services related to the local Acts and By-Laws of Malaysia.
Asian Architecture
The subject explores the history of South, Southeast and East Asian architecture as a whole within a systematic treatment of architectural design and construction, building science and technology, garden design and city planning through three key themes: sustainability, tradition and modernity & globalization. These themes will guide the organisation of weekly lecture and projects, which will proceed from the establishment of a basic theoretical apparatus to the examination of specific cases. We will develop understanding on Asian architecture and urbanism and interpret Asian architectural language through research poster and oral presentation.
Community Service Initiative (CSI)
Community Service Initiative module (CSI) is a compulsory MPU4 subject, in which students are required to pass in order to graduate. In School of Architecture, Building and Design, CSI will continue the traditional teaching and learning method in Architectures, that is learning by integrating theories with design practice. Students are required to incorporate the theory they have learned at school into real life environment and problems. The intention is to reveal the students to the real community and work together as a team for architectural, culture and environmental enhancing activities in the communities of different social economic status and social groups.
