Building Materials - ARC 1512

A subject aimed at introducing the basic and not so basic elements of the built environment. A very informative and strong base subject for an achitectural student.

The first project was more like a ice breaking exercise. Building material is any material which is used for a construction purpose.This exercise was designed as an introduction to building materials that are commonly used in the local construction industry. We were required to identify five(5) materials that are being used in any space in our HOME. We were then required to do a catalog of these materials and describe them through photographs, sketches and some descriptions.

PROJECT 1A & 1B : Materiality of Space : An Experiential Exploration

Here, in groups of 5 we were required to select a commercial / residential building (a fun, creative space) which allow you to experience and explore most of the building materials covered in the module.

The objectives were as follows : 

• To introduce various types of building materials that is being used in the current construction practice

• To create an understanding of the choices designers makes in choosing the building materials based on the

   properties of these materials

• To further understand the physical and chemical properties of the building materials being used in existing

   buildings/spaces

• To expose students to standard construction names/terminologies for materials in a space/ building

We had to produce two A2 boards and one mood board to include identification of materials by drawing out plans, sections and elevations, as well as the application of certain materials, describing their physical and chemical properties as well as suitability of the material used.

board 1

board 2

mood board

For the individual component, we had to produce one individual A2 board of a chosen space in the site to describe the design intention and concept as well as space analysis.

Completing this project, we realized we were now able to : 

• Produce a complete documentation and analysis of materials in respect to physical and chemical properties

• Identify various types of building material (Finishes and Structural)

• Understand the effects of building materials on aesthetics and structural qualities of a space or building.

• Understand the appropriateness of material used in context several factorsoccupancy, concept, climate

• Acquire analytical skill in understanding selection of building materials for a building/design

• Understand the application/ installation of materials as finish and structural material (simple construction)

PROJECT 2:  Integration - Material Specification

This project is integrated along with PROJECT 3 of our Design Studio module. Based on our conceptual ideas we were required to :

• introduce the process materials selection/proposal process by designers during designing stages
• expose ourselves to latest development and technology relating to the building materials 
• create an understanding of how the building materials selection can affect the aesthetic and structural values of their design
• allow us to demonstrate our understanding and knowledge of building materials

perspective of scaled 1:50 model

This project allowed me to apply the understanding of various types of building material which affects the tactile and chemical properties of design/building/space, to explore and identify various types of building materials and technology,  to understand the effects of building materials on occupancy, aesthetics and structural qualities of a space or building, environment and etc. and finally to produce drawings to visualize the architectural effects of proposed materials (spatial quality)