GSA Interior Design FYP Portfolio 2021 by Tan Rui Ting

Singapore Ground Level Spaces A creative work for the Final Year Project

© 2021 Portfolio : A compilation of works All rights reserved. This book or parts thereof may not be reproduced in any form, stored in any retrieval system, or transmitted in any form by any means— electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, or otherwise—without prior written permission of the editor, except in the case of brie quotation embodied in critical review and certain other non commercial uses permitted by copyright law. For permission requests, write to the editor, addressed “Attention: Portfolio Permissions,” at the address below: tanruiting90@gmail.com https://www.behance.net/tanruiting97e9 Printed & published in singapore Cover, illustrations, photo and words by Tan Rui Ting

Singapore Ground Level Spaces A creative work for the Final Year Project

Presented to

The Glasgow School of Art Singapore & Singapore Institute of Technology of Interior Design

By Tan Rui Ting 1901013 May 2021

I wish to express my gratitude to the following people for their valuable contributions and expertise to this final year project. My supervisors Jawn Lim, Mark Teo, Nadia Wagner & Seung-Ho Lee for the patience and guidance with their knowledge and critique which contribute my project growth and development as a student helping me to clarify and strengthen the concept and understanding of these projects. Lastly, my precious family and classmate for their communication of encouragement and support. Thank you, this would not be possible.

Content

Introduction

Pg 11

Project 1

Pg 17 - 65

Project 2

Pg 67 - 99

Project 3

Pg 101-121

Closing Thought

Pg 123

AbSTRact

In Singapore, Up to 80% of Singapore’s population live in HDB flats. known as Housing and Development Board (HDB), a residential housing developments publicly governed and developed. It is a common sight that each housing block is considered a vertical community, with a common area built into the design to promote social interaction. An example Void decks, a term unique to Singapore, refers to the first level which are often left devoid of housing units, hence the word “void”. These open, sheltered spaces are intentionally left empty to provide convenient spaces for communal activities. This project seeks to provide an additional option to plug into the existing gap, rather than a ‘solution’. Seeks a new paradigm of utillising elevated and underused void deck spaces for assisted community space. In the futur, such typological inventions could possibly be incorporated into enviromental decks of newer Builtto-Order (BTO) flats. Rigid planning processes by the goverment have become so institutionalized that residence in the community rarely have the chance to voice their own ideas and aspirations about the places they inhabit. Over time these spaces become negelcted, thus there a need to relook these spaces before it all gone.

Part 1

carescapes Elderly

geographical analysis of care relationships

social relationships of care

- Aim Improving Connections and Care in the Built Environment

Part 2

Playful learning in everyday spaces Children

geographical analysis of play spaces

Shape's influence the identity of play

- Aim Spark children's development through spaces

Part 3

Void spaces Residences

The essences of the void deck

social relationships of space & human

- Aim “A communities that provides”

OVERVIEW

In this issue, the need to revatalise these ground spaces are addressed in respect to three relevant topics: (1)Carescape, collective remembrance and competing memories, (2)Playful learning in everyday spaces, the process of engagement, and the (3) possibilities of architecture as an element of agency in remembering and dealing with memories/destinations Since human interaction are articulated through space, the investigation then turns towards a distinction of underlining spatial concepts that are essential in Singapore ground level spaces (Void Deck). The commemorative potential of landscapes is explored in a brief analysis.

INTRODUCTION

Singapore ground level space One can derived from this about how ‘void decks’ plays such an important role in contributing tons of interaction in the space. It creates a space for multi-functional purposes for all ages regardless of status too. Even when time has pasted over decades and people have their own apartments to stay in. The ‘Void Deck’ is an interpretation and essence of encouraging the kampung spirit that united a country like Singapore multi-racial country.

The Beginning...

Those who underwent this transition had to adjust to an entirely new way of living

Everyome still knows each other despite the move, many have simlar backgrounds while living upon there

Change: From living from the close knitted swamp to clean and orderly highrise flats

The Moving...

... Of ... Resettlement

This change incited great fear. Most of them lived off their small plots of land for a living, and this transition would lead to them losing their source of livelihood.

When plans to create a new satellite town in Toa Payoh were announced in 1961. ---> Kampung dwellers moving out of their attap houses in Toa Payoh

KAMPOUNG LIVING IN THE PAST We be looking at a older estate in TPY, seeing how the behaviors of residences and the surrounding affects community relationship. Antiquity Back in the 19th century, the area where Toa Payoh stands today was a natural swampland. A hint of this can be found in the etymology of the name “Toa Payoh”, which literally means “big swamp”. Swamps were a common sight in Singapore in the past, until plantation owners started settling inland and cleared the area. In the early 1900s, the swampland became home to villages, alongside large swathes of plantations from the 19th century. By the 1950s, the colonial government began acquiring land in the area for housing.

In kampung, there is no barriers such as doors/gates, where sense of community where everybody looks out for each other. Good things are shared, and burdens are carried. The transparency in spaces has allow to develop trust between the neighbours

This marked the start of the estate’s journey to modernisation, as the first housing estate planned and built by the Housing Board (HDB) in the 1960s. ... To ...

Something New...

The town was raw, awkward, and its blocks of flats still held a new, whitewashed look...

A GREAT NATIONAL EXPERIMENT

---> An aerial view of Toa Payoh, 1967

Toa Payoh represented a new frontier in public housing. A key step of solution had been found to Singapore’s housing problem

Our Ground level Spaces Void decks An empty space that never really empty .It where we say : Hello, Aiyo you so cute, Never ending goodbye (sending off), Spend the moment we want to share (Malay wedding) , The ones we cant face alone (the died) It may seem just an empty space has become a symbol of our Singapore sprit. Brought by the little bit of ourselves. Imagining what else it can be. It doesn’t matter that we are young old small or tall where we go from here is each and every one of us because if we can make so much from an empty space , imagine what we can do with everything else.

To allow people to remenber and have an expression to the space in the void deck. I want to tap onto users irritation and curiosity of the space.

Studies shown that people tend to think what they did throughout their days. Most commonly recall the things that they are unhappy about or the fondest memories with people.

- https://www.nhb.gov.sg/~/media/nhb/files/resources/publications/ebooks/nhb_ebook_void_decks.pdf

“ Why residents rush through void decks, back to the cramped comforts of home, as if in fear of what such open spaces might do to cosy minds”

Conclusion Although void deck act as an common ground, where traffic flow is the highest. Many of the void decks in Singapore are getting smaller due to people not seeing the value in the space that is given. Thus, what are the possible reaction and opportunity that can be form for re ecounter in spaces?

- https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/housing/shrinking-hdb-void-deck-leaves-empty-feeling

Void decks are slowly replaced with other more specific, stand alone spaces such as playgrounds, gardens and precinct pavillions. These spaces gives people a reasonto visit

PART 1 In this First chapter the rise of demand of housing in Housing and Development Board (HDB). We question the needs of these spaces. Which leads to the questions what is so intriguing about these spaces that lead us to the choice of place? When we purchase houses we do not just look into the home but the surrounding admenities. With the arise of more amenities, more of these ground level spaces (Void Deck) started to lose their accents and purpose, now left empty and waiting for it to be revitilise. we look into how can we better uterlised these ground level spaces as well as provides better care spaces for the seniors in the neighbourhood. By repurposing the design outlook of the void deck through the way we care for the seniors.

Why Elderly? Singapore’s ageing population has led to more conversations about what it means to age successfully. While living longer often brings to mind challenges to physical health, it is important to realize that seniors have other needs that are also associated with the ageing process, in areas such as social belonging, intimate bonds with family and friends as well as a sense of autonomous living.

- https://www.gs.org.sg/sg50conference/pdf/s4-1.pdf

Ageing is a lifelong process that results in physiological and psychological changes, which affect aspects such as sense of sight and space, tactility and stability, and cognitive ability. These changes may affect how we experience our neighborhoods.

“ Improving our neighbourhoods and making us rethink the design of physical spaces and our lifestyles”. - https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/interactive/2021/reimagine-safety/neighborhood-safety-spaces/

Good design of spaces in neighborhoods can support seniors’ mobility and encourage them to go outdoors. Since being mobile can enhance cognition, improve physical performance, and give more opportunities for interaction with others, such design can help our physical, mental and social well-being. By Creating supportive and enabling environments through designs that allow for easy transition between different spaces, encourage movement and promote interaction among residents.

What is care Care is based on the essence of Being, giving meaning to existence and manifesting itself in different ways. Taking a step back, to analyze beyond the physical acknowledge we investigate the prospect of care in general. We question the act of caring has how much impact in a human facing the seniors years in different scenario.

Types of Care Services (singapore) Agency for Integrated Care (AIC) was designated the single agency to coordinate the delivery of aged care services, and to enhance service development and capability-building across both the health and social domains.

Where do the elderly usually go? There are 3 main types of care services in Singapore residences/elderly can turn to:

1. Home Care, which provides care at the care recipient’s home 2. Day Care, which individuals can go to in the day and return home to their families in the evening

Rather than the government or assisted care. Can care spaces to be find in neighbourhood spaces?

3. Stay-In Care, for those who cannot care for themselves or when they need care that cannot be provided at home.

Till today AIC continues to tasked and seeks to create a vibrant care community enabling people to live well and age gracefully. They work closely with Community Care partners in supporting them in service development and manpower-capability building to raise the quality of care and bringing care support closer to those in need. - https://www.aic.sg/care-services

- http://www.lienfoundation.org/sites/default/files/Second%20Beginnings.pdf

^ Overview of current SENIOR LIVING landscape (singapore) Though there a catergories that stated caresapaces in the neighbourhood. But however these spaces are bulit in a way only invite seniors only, making these spaces less neighbourhood friendly.

Can we remove the name of “center” or “Hubs” of these spaces and still seniors do feel welcome and other residences can uses the space as well?

Moving Forward we will be looking into different case studies in singapore. These studies show a varieties of how the neighbourhood come together to care for the seniors in the same living space. We analyse the opportunities of these living spaces despite different senerio. At the end it will help us to gain a level of insight about carescapes in Singapore, helping us to keep a lookup in future development and process of th the project.

A Communities That Care

To better understand older adults’ (aged 55 and older) day-today interactions with the built environment and the effect on their overall physical, social and mental health.

Dementia-Friendly Communities (DFC). It is a programme in the neighbourhood where residents, businesses and services, and the community at large, are aware of dementia and understand how to better support seniors with dementia and their caregivers. It is a place where the seniors feel respected, valued, and where help is within easy reach so that they can continue to lead independent lives. It is also an environment which the seniors will be able to move around safely and with ease.

Hong Kah North (case studies) The launch of DFC in Hong Kah North, the community partners have been trained on dementia. Joining these organisations are dementia friends who act as the eyes and ears on the ground keeping a lookout for those who may need assistance.

Typically, a lost elderly is usually sent to a police station and kept there until the family members are contacted by the police. To a person with dementia, it may be an unpleasant experience to be kept in a police station and Go-To Points can help alleviate this agonising experience for lost elderly with dementia

- https://www.ura.gov.sg/-/media/Corporate/Media-Room/2019/Oct/pr19-44a.pdf - https://www.aic.sg/mental-wellness-dementia/Documents/mind-matters/Mind%20Matters%20Jun%202016.pdf - https://partners.aic.sg/sites/aicassets/AssetGallery/Press%20Release/Press%20Release%20-%20Launching%20more%20Dementia-Friendly%20 Communities%20in%20%20Singapore.pdf

L O CA L C A S E S T U D I E S

Senior Minister of State for Health Dr Khor (front) at the launch of Singapore’s second dementia- friendly community, Hong Kah North

This system in the neighbourhood, has allow opportunities of people with similar concerns and interest to be connected. Upon staying in that area, residences are already aware about their surroundings helps in the neighbourhood. Allowing occupants with seniors to feel safe and comfortable. It foster the communnities to behave and act in a cetain way, to look out for seniors around, to have greater patients and care towards seniors around.

Singapore’s 1st integrated retirement community project by Housing and Development Board. Brings together a mix of public facilities and services under one roof. The traditional approach is for each government agency to carve out their own plot of land, resulting in several standalone buildings.

Integrated Care services Kampung Admiralty (KA) The 11-storey “modern kampung” features 100 flats for the elderly, a two-storey medical centre providing specialist outpatient care, an Active Ageing Hub co-located with a childcare centre, dining and retail outlets, as well as a 900-seat hawker centre. Together, they offer a wide range of facilities and amenities for both young and old in the community.

Beyond the facilities, Kampung Admiralty has also been designed with a variety of community spaces to encourage community involvement and ownership.able to move around safely and with ease.

- https://www.archdaily.com/904646/kampung-admiralty-woha - https://www.csc.gov.sg/articles/kampung-admiralty-building-for-all-ages - https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/housing/kampung-admiralty-stirs-to-life-as-residents-move-in

Flats designed to be elderly friendly. programmed and the style of the place is similar a hospital setting, where everything you need is within a building/site.

Medical Centre in KA means that residents need not go all the way to the hospital to consult a specialist, or to get a simple day surgery done.

The grounds, community plaza, of KA are buzzing with activity, alongside franchised eateries

The specific allocation of social spaces causes the lack to cross communications between neighborhood, making the place more on the serious tone.

Intergenerational care service

The design approach focused on three key pillars: 1. Designing for Community 2. Designing for Mobility 3. Designing for Dignity

As part of the inter-generational model of care, the home provides opportunities for residents and children to interact daily. The bright and positive energy from the young helps to enlighten the mood of the seniors surroundings thus aloowing to increase the well being of the seniors. Having the young interacting with the seniors and caretaker have allow to slowly nature the attitudes of being compassion and empathy

It is the 1st nursing home in Singapore to have a childcare centre on its premises.

St Joseph’s Home To provide shelter, care and love for the aged and destitute, regardless of race or religion.able to move around safely and with ease. Over the years, it has evolved to provide nursing, hospice, therapy, social work as well as infant and childcare services.

Wide and unobstructed corridors run around the periphery of each floor to facilitate residents’ mobility around the home.

A common canteen area and an inter-generational playground with wheelchair-friendly equipment were built to foster social interaction between the children and the residents.

- https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/health/singapores-first-inter-generational-playground-childcare-centre-in-a-nursing-home

Sister Geraldine Tan, Catholic Welfare Services, said, “The centre creates a space where everyone can find a place to co-exist – the young, the older, the dying and the sick. This full circle care model is where we can learn to embrace one another to live in harmony.”

The lush landscaped corridors on every level provides an ever-present closeness to nature that is normally experienced only at ground level or at a park, bringing the healing touch of nature to the residents regardless of the level they live on.

Each spaces were carefully factored into the design, to address the needs of each category of residents.

- https://archibazaar.com/project/st-josephs-home/

The open concept of the space has allow opportunities for people to wander and varying setbacks and room openings introduced small and intimate alcoves, created a welcoming environment for the residents, staff and the community.

THOUGHTS

In conclusuion

As you can see the case study of A Communities That Care, Integrated Care services, and Intergenerational care service. All this is run by government support center or agency initiative. Most of the intention just lies in particular planning on just the elderly using the space and how they can benefit their health. However, when it comes to another age group come in is just the act of visiting and helping the seniors. Isn’t care is about each other but not a single party? Why can we only get care in these Care spaces? Why not public space? Does it mean we only can get care in these spaces? Can we be part of the care even I not part of the community centers?

What makes users so exclusive and overly attention of care? To me is the space that restricts the programs, building, wall, signage, all this matter to bring out a serious care mood. Is there a way communities can provide gentle care spaces with the idea of better inclusive of the surroundings?

These four dimensions are associated in an intersubjective dynamic way, permeating the human being, endowed with perceptions, feelings, values and knowledge. Thus, by understanding the state of mind of “being human” allow us to perceive the fundamental need of human care.

1. Physical health is understood as the normal development of the individual, with balance between the organic components. 2. Mental health implies orientation in time and space, absence of alienation, ability to balance themselves in different life situations, self-realization, openness to others and for oneself, freedom of thought, expression and creation.

3. Social health is the adjustment of the individual in the social group, involving adequate housing, balance of economic factors, leisure, education and relationships. 4. The spiritual health is revealed in the way of facing life. Belief in an absolute or transcendent Being is fundamental to overcoming obstacles.

< These factors can be seen in the study of the case studies. Here it highlights that to better provide the elderly we need to see beyond the physical and mental effect but the surrounding effect it gave to the seniors.

Thus we need to look at a new neighborhood to identify the new needs in community care in the void deck without any government support help. Purely the communities and it surrounding to cater care spaces for both seniors and residences in the area.

GROUND WORK Overview of Sengkang Estate :

Legend Choosen site intervention Hospital

School

Wet Market & Food Center Community Hub & Polyclinic Shopping Mall

Bus

MRT

Why a young Neighbourhood like Sengkang? Most of the old HDB Ground Spaces has already had amenities that cater to the needs of the users. Thus, filling up the void. However, we aim to fully utilize these empty ground spaces and by giving them a new identity and purpose to better cater to the needs of the residence in the area such as families with children, seniors, and young working adults. Reviving the life of these grounds spaces of this young neighborhood.

which so much amenities around the neighbourhood It questions the need of community care spaces in the neighbourhood. As healthcare needs can be found in hospital while activity can be found in commuinity centre what make the ground spaces unique without repeating the same amentities around and provide a different type of care service in the neighbourhood.

Located : BLK 323B Sengkang East Way, Singapore 542323

As seen on the site plan ^ The young neighborhood has many amenities that cater needs of people today. It does question when there so many activities and programs happing in the neighborhood, what will happen to these ground-level spaces? - smaller as compared to the old neighborhood and left empty (no interaction). Thus, it is important to what are the opportunities that can attract users to use these communities’ spaces instead of public spaces.

About the site Located in the northeastern side of Singapore, Sengkang is named from a road called Lorong Sengkang, off Lorong Buangkok. Sengkang which means ‘prosperous harbour’ in Chinese, was previously occupied by rubber and plant plantations and fishing villages. To reflect the history as a fishing village, Sengkang is designed with the theme ‘Town of the Seafarer’.

Evident to see that this is a young neighborhood. Although this first part of project focus more on the seniors (retires). However, the end outlook was create better care spaces in the ground level spaces and not fully dependent on the government to provide care services, as believes that communities can play a part in providing care. Thus, it will be relevant as they will be upcoming batch of elderly that communities can provide care instead of government center.

< Demographic of population in the area

< Legend Choosen site intervention

- https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_248_2005-01-20.html - https://www.citypopulation.de/en/singapore/admin/sengkang/30501__anchorvale/

Overview of Site neigbourhood surroundings

In Singapore public housing (HDB) town it is no stranger to find shared spaces and facilities, such as playgrounds, gardens, pavilions, and fitness corners to add vibrancy in the neighborhood. By promoting social interaction and community bonding for residents of all ages, for instance, it acts as an important area where people in the community can build and strengthen ties on an everyday basis.

Legend

We investigate a neighborhood (Sengkang) The aim to understand pockets of neighborhood spaces that we interact with every day and how do we find support and comfort of care in the spaces that they were in.

The project will highlight such neighborhood spaces has a unique characteristic and original facilities that are allocated may not be enough or best fit the needs of the current of today.

Amenities of the neighbourhood Certain spaces such as gardens and leisure spots /corner, they become somewhat like a destination where people have to specially travel to, instead of naturally walking past

Benches are place in a way that everyone can see each other. The constant meeting of gaze often causes user to not seat for a pro-long time

Resting spots Seating is a critical part of the daily social life. A nice place to sit welcomes you to your city. Bench-space allows people to loosely belong within the flow of city life, to see and be seen. A bench is a possible beginning of new contact. Benches are symbols of what it means for space to be shared. A bench encourages people to walk, because there will be somewhere to rest.

Reflexology Paths They are constructed of small pebbles ranging from flat to pointed and round to oblong, all of them embedded in concrete in carefully laid out decorative patterns.

Benches are placed around the neighbourhood to allow you to rest, wait or even passing by for a short amount of time. It allow opportunities to pause and wander the spaces around them.

The purpose of these paths is to stimulate pressure points in the feet; reflexology teaches that the feet, hands and ears contain several reflex points that correspond to other parts of the body. By stimulating these points by massage or by walking on paths like these, we are supposed to gain beneficial effects on our overall health in the corresponding body parts.

- https://www.nparks.gov.sg/gardens-parks-and-nature/therapeutic-gardens - https://issuu.com/stipoteam/docs/benches

However these benches are often only use for parents who are looking out for their kids while they plays, the objective of the benches for relax have looses the initial intentions

Amenities of the neighbourhood Somewhere between childhood and adulthood, we stopped playing. When we carve out some leisure time, we’re more likely to zone out in front of the TV or computer than engage in fun, rejuvenating play like we did as children. But play is not just essential for kids; it can be an important source of relaxation and stimulation for adults as well

Playground Playgrounds in Singapore play a vital role in neighborhood identity. It serves as a gathering spot for residences to commute. Over time it has become part of our memory scape who spent their childhood playing.

Why do you choose to seat around here?

“The seniors like to be in the presence of young people. It reminds them of their childhood, reminds them of their youth, and it gives them energy and gives them life.” - A residence in the neighbourhood -

Play and relationships Play is one of the most effective tools for keeping relationships fresh and exciting. Playing together brings joy, vitality, and resilience to relationships. Play can also heal resentments, disagreements, and hurts. Through regular play, we learn to trust one another and feel safe. Trust enables us to work together, open ourselves to intimacy, and try new things.

- https://www.helpguide.org/articles/mental-health/benefits-of-play-for-adults.htm

As an audience why do i felt happiness in playground even though i am not playing? The sound of laughter from the kids. Laughter really is the best medicine. Laughter makes us feel good. And the positive feeling that comes from laughter and having fun remains with us even after the giggles subside. Play and laughter can help us retain a positive, optimistic outlook through difficult situations, disappointments, and loss. which leads to the point, by seeing i can feel active as well?

Amenities of the neighbourhood Is very interesting to see such a space activity is the point of a lively neighbourhood

Chit chat Public locations where members of a community/residences tend to gather for group activities, social support, public information about the latest change, and other purposes. They may sometimes seem like a normal space but is where words spread the fatest.Often gathering are a specialized group within th e greater community such as students eating cup noodles, teenagers spents the midnight lodging around and adults(house wives) talks about the latest sales in the mall.

Places like these are well connected with shelter

Morning this spaces is commonly use by the seniors with the care givers Early Afternoon this spaces commonly occupied with students after school hours or elderly lodging around Late afternoons before dinner the most active peroid when parents bring their kids down for play time

Pavillion It provide a place to rest along the way, as well as shade to shield us from too much exposure to the sun. They are designed to be accessible, so that all ages and abilities can enjoy a wonderful outdoor setting. Pavilions provide a central location for meeting up with friends, as well as large family reunions.

A common sight where residents spending time with one another on a common ground communicating with each another while taking care of their children from a distance.

Human Circulation Base on observation on site. The way to enter, go through the neighbourhood and around the ground level spaces is by there are 3 specifiec point:

Residence coming in from Hospital, Community Hub & Polyclinic or Shopping Mall

43 2

< Legend Choosen site intervention Human path

Residence coming in from the nearest bus stop

Residence coming in from MRT ,Shopping Mall, Wet Market & Food Center

OBSERVATION Where do the seniors like to hang around? Base on observation on site, pavillion is one of those places elderlies like to hangout during the day. Mostly those who hangout at this area are females, seniors themselves or helper or a next of kin with seniors.

Where do the seniors like to hang around? Base on observation on site, this seating area nearing to the bustop is one of those places elderlies like to hangout during the others parts of the day. Mostly those who hangout at this area are females, seniors themselves or helper or a next of kin with seniors.

What are the commonality of these seniors witheir spaces? They like to seat around and observe. Once in a while they stand and stretch when they see familiar faces, they node and gesture as they gone by. Their most drastic movement as observe is just walking in the neighbourhood. But the most interesting part to me is the location of where they enjoy seating and observing. Most of these spaces they hangout in are the area with one of the highest human traffic areas. From the seatings bus stop and the pavilion at the centre of two key walkway.

As I was curious why. The seniors can seat there for hours and not talking, I sat there as well to experience what they experience.

I learn that I am more self-aware of my surroundings, I manage to see familiar faces around. More so, although I did not strike a conversion to the passer-by, I can feel their sense of emotions of these people walking past me, being anxious, tired, etc. In some way, the ride of emotion is something that I did not aspect myself to have by just looking/observing.

Self aware in seniors? Looking back to the case studies that mention previously, it architecture contribute the factor of how things are place and how they blend in the surrounding. Having a more cohesive outlook. Most importantly these spaces promote the awareness of these elderly, but I still do feel there a certain level of seriousness tone in these spaces, everything is well planned and they were not giving a choice, everything is cramp during the day while at night the place becomes quiet, I believe community care in void decks give them the freedom of choice, were not structural rules of mood to get things done, being care is not just a “day” thing but is the whole day.

When the seating begins The story of a new chapters begins. Everyday the same thing but every moments is different Self Independent During the day i like to go to the supermarket to get groceries, to prepard a meal for the families - Auntie Most of the seniors int the area like to be alone, uses umbrella or alike to aid their walking.

Every morning i will come here to get some fresh air - Auntie Is nice to see how they get comfortable even though is a public space

sparking interaction Every kids movments seems to engage the alderly. At that moment i wonder is giving out sweets from mom to daughter and they wanted the sweets as well or the joy of the kids happiness.

Everyday i will try to bring her out to see the surrounding, making her more active and communicate people her age as well. Most importantly her mood seems better everytime i bring her out although she didnt request it. - Auntie reading newspaper while the elderly enjoy herself

Rest

Chat

Play ^ common activities that is found in the neighbourhood

Play, rest, and chat is a commonly be seen in the neighbourhood. However these kind of activities can been seen at home. To change out the idea of the community spaces today , we need to stop using the same method. Reaserach of unstanding of the neighbourhood in sengkang, has allow us to better understand the behaviour in the ways residences uses the space, use or neglected. Often times these activities can only happen if you are in the moment. what happen if we are not? can we still be apart of it?

IDEATION

& See

Wander

^ Propose of new activities in the neighbourhood

The proposal of See is to tap on on the elderly interest in using spaces to “see”. To o be part of the movement of being seen, we eplore the extension of wander through the eyes in movement and space. The aim is to encourage user such as passer-by can be part of the new movement in space. Studies show we speak out more or to tell complete strangers their deepest, darkest secrets. Even so by seeing we can tap on user emotions without phyiscal telling, strengthening the ideal of awarness in space.

EXPLORATIONS Seak to find way of how spaces can be configure to provide smoother interactions through the way of seeing. Seeing to wandwe and wander to explore. ^ Site context An illustration of the structural element in space

^ Current Site The current spaces as seen did not blend with the surrounding making it jarring due to its enclosure. – if you were to enter they will ask a series of question why are you here for.Making the experience of wondering and belonging not there to be cared for.

Open >

< Enclosed

Linear Struture original

Angle Struture

Staggered Struture

Exploration 1 Rather than focusing on walls to provide an opening for being open to space. Can structural elements like columns, tall and wide, is used to act as opening as well as boundaries and how can these elements set as signals of the movement in space through the proximity of these elements together. ^ Best representation of intention

Open >

< Enclosed

Acute Triangular

Right Triangular

Center Triangular

Exploration 2 From floor to wall to ceiling is always a right angle @ 90 degrees (perfect square or rectangle), framing these empty spaces. Is there a way to change the outlook of these spaces? In this exploration, we use the shape of a triangle to challenge the outlook in space. ^ Best representation of intention

Open >

< Enclosed

Long Wall

Side Wall

Alternate Wall

Exploration 3 Often in these ground-level void deck spaces, it is interpreted as the same equal spacing with multiple rows of columns, lacks interest in looking at it, not waiting to use these spaces. In this exploration, we aim to break the flow of these spaces to bring out movements in the structural wall through direction and positioning. ^ Best representation of intention

D E S I G N I N T E R V E NPRODUCED T I OBYN AN AUTODESK

^ Combination of intention

Public Space

Corridor

Neighbourhood space

^ Floor Plan

K STUDENT VERSION

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

^ New intended cirulation

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

Public Space

Corridor Neighbourhood space

3rd

2nd 1st

^ Floor Plan PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

1st: is the transition between the two places (interior-interior, outer-outer space)

2nd: is the transition space between outer and inner spaces

Reimagining everyday spaces & Breaking down barriers If we look at their hierarchy, the first major transition occurs at the boundary between the natural and the built environment (for example, the boundary of a forest and a city). As we move inwards into the city the next transition occurs in public spaces, streets and their intersections. Then there will be a transition between internal and external spaces, and then finally we will get to the transitions between the interiors.

3rd: emphasizedmore because the understanding of the relationship between architecture, nature and architecture was indispensable for me

The transition between the natural and the built environment is also achieved on a smaller scale, eitherthrough a public space, between an interior and exterior, or even inside an interior of an atrium.

^ Surprize gaze encourage a new opportunity of acknowledgement presence in space, a simple knodding.

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

^ Floor Plan

New resting space Creates a visual that allows you to appreciate your surrounding and enhancing your human senses to being able to feel and touch. When triggering the senses we have. This allow us to feel certain types of level of comfortability, angled wall act as a level of barrier of comfort as user in space cannot prevent uncomfortable gaze from passer by. Base on site behaviour : User tend felt awkard we tend to run /faster towards a space where there less people or facing a direction wher a user know there no one there

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

From afar we understand there is someone there , legs to be seen, user wont go forward thus without interupting the user using the space. Providing privacy and openess.

Why angular wall at the center? As the ground level spaces all look the same. The werid angle aim to give a new attention to the space, allowing peope to come forward at all sides. Giving a sense of attractive and awarness

Level of intimacy wandering or exploring around the neighbourhood we would be able to identify and create a specific landmark or venue engraved into our brain so that we could familiarise our surroundings.

charcteristic of spaces base on the user inter-

Noisy

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

^ Floor Plan

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

observing from a far without interfer-

Quiet

Moderate

Noise level are considerate in spaces as it affect the audience where they want to wander around. This in concluded base on site observation.

^ series of model making an sketches

Conclusion The end of project 1 research and outcome, highlight the importance of the physical environment for seniors to feel comfortable, is the needs of others elements in exterior spaces and also seeking for awarness is the new type of care in today seniors. By placing the attention to the seniors in this project have brought insights that they do not need a lot. Most at the end is on how other user/ residence behaviurs and attitude giving off, not just the physical needs of a users instead is more on the emotional needs between users as well.

PART 2 In this Second chapter Often void decks are left empty for future activities and development. we take a look at the second-highest demographics of using ground spaces - kids. Is there a way we can better cater these void decks spaces for them to use instead? Based on what we observe. The only reason that the kids use ground-level spaces is that they want to head outside to the playground to play with their friends. Therefore, is only through an interest in “playing” that we can attract more kids and children alike to use these spaces. Thus, we take a look at how the interest in play has influenced their behavior in these neighborhoods. Discover the opportunity of other types of plays to cater in these void deck spaces rather than the focusing playground itself.

Series of Images above ^ : These photo is taken over a peroid of time.

As we obsereve the children play at the playground It came as a surprise to see many of these plays have been cared for/ guided by the caretaker (adult). Though there a level of distance is there for kids to play when their other kids around if there are no other children caretaker often steps in to fill in the gap of playing with another person. It allows us to understand that playing itself is not individual but the act of interaction with more than one user. But it does question us that adults need a level of the play itself. As well as design play spaces for the kid s we need to consider the adults being there as part of the experience. Based on what I have seen what defines play or is say fun for the adult is when they see their children having fun. What caused me to this conclusion is how intermate they are with the kids and the joy and laughter, positive energy they gave off ( this may be a bias opinion)

Legend Choosen site intervention Playground

Image above ^ : This photot is taken before dinner time

We look into the The playground in this neighborhood. We will be observing and analyzing how the kids play in this area. what defines play to them. There a possibility that by exploring the way the playground design and use, we can improve the quality of life for children and families through the other part of the neighborhood like the void deck.

“ It is in playing and only in laying that the individual child or adult is able to be creative and to use the whole personality. And to use the whole personality , and it is only in being creative that the individual discovers the self ”. - D.W. Winnicott

What are some of the amenities that are useful along with the playground? we understand that more than one user is needed in the actions of play base on our observation. If only one person with space how can it be communicated? Base on the plan we can see what assisted the “play” is the placement of the playground, circulation route around the play area, and meeting point/ resting point.

< when choosing the site of intervention we must take note the opportunities that can aid the design.

At the end of the day Playgrounds should be spaces where both children and adults can have fun together. We have been emphasising that play an important role in the development of social and problem-solving skills. so what stops people from playing?

Why? Few invitations to play outside of the playground? To my knowledge of underatsnding on the site of observation. It is came down to a few conclusions. - Temptations to stay inside their home are ever present. Many residence end goal is to reach home, stride through these void deck spaces just to get back to their end destination. Not that going home is wrong but it indicate that the quality of the neigbourhood space is not enough to slow down or enjoy the surrounding space. - Play is often isolated from day-toda activities. to control the noise disruption, the identity of play is mostly only evident in the playground, not anywhere else in the ground level spaces. - Too many rules are place in the ground level spaces. As there many signs that contributes to no playing at the ground spaces, bring feaes of using spaces that they can play in.

Precedent Other than play what can we do as well? I believe there something more to play. Through playing we can learn as well.an example is the montessori education. Base on case studies, Montessori education helps children develop independence, a sense of empathy and social justice, and a lifelong love of learning. We will be following the the metods of montessori education to better enhance the quality of play in the users.

what is Montessori education? The Montessori method of education was developed by Italian physician Maria Montessori. It helps to emphasize independence, it views children as naturally eager for knowledge and capable of initiating learning in a sufficiently supportive and well-prepared learning environment.

How can we benefit from it? We have seen the characteristics of the environment needed in plays in Montessori education. It has helped us to highlights some important aspects during the case studies which is the requirement of freedom of choice in spaces. From here we can study the methodology of Montessori education to provide free play and educative play in void deck spaces.

On the next page we will be reviewing a space that uses the montessori education as a reference in designing the space.

- https://www.nature.com/articles/s41539-017-0012-7

When designing the play scapes, there are some recommend taking into account the following features from the basis of montessori education: Simple The child doesn’t need much. Light colors and natural light are indicated. Minimalist It is important to remember that many options (colors or toys, for example) in the same environment can cause confusion in the child. Therefore, it is recommended to select few options and favor the development of decision-making capacity. Organized When the external environments are organized, the child’s internal organization (like his reasoning, for example) tends to flow more easily as well. Accessible Everything must be designed so that the baby (or child) is able to move and interact through space without adult intervention. It is important to emphasize that what should not be necessary is the intervention of an adult and not his presence. The presence of a conscious adult watching your child is always recommended. Insurance The most important thing to have in a good prepared environment is the possibility of exploration. For a child to be free to explore without taking risks, a safe environment must be prepared for them: wires in the paths, sockets, loose objects on the floor are not interesting. Silent Remember that a good prepared environment should favor physical and emotional autonomy (choices), in addition to stimulating concentration. So, choose to leave your child’s room in a quieter area of the house. Avoid electronic devices in the room. Create a peaceful atmosphere.

- https://www.archdaily.com/930510/how-to-stimulate-childrens-autonomy-through-architecture-and-the-montessori-method

< The uncontrol play has allows kids to explore the object in a way that works best for them. Though it might look risky but it definitely create the attention of user to go ahead to use it and respecting those who want to use the space as well. Thus, shows that we do not need toys to play, but elements that contribute it.

Image above ^ : Integrate the surrounding trees to the classroom and safety nets are installed to prevent children from falling into the holes around the trees. experience the sense of controlled danger helps them connect with each other and develop solidarity and team spirit

Image above ^ : Trees grow right through the middle of the classrooms, breaking the boundaries between outside and inside, and there are no walls between the classrooms, children are free to wander from one ‘room’ to another

The idea of personalized environment plays an important role in the Montessori method. When creating the intervention, it is important to consider one where feel valued, feel known, feel that their choice is being respected. Fuji playground evidently show the continuity of choice and the freedom choice allow students to perform better.

- https://www.you.co/sg/blog/worlds-best-kindergarten-a-look-into-fuji-kindergarten/ - https://hundred.org/en/articles/is-this-the-best-kindergarten-in-the-world

The design of the building helps them to be self-discovering. They decide how and where they want to play, what class they want to listen to, effectively and motivate how they want to learn. The Montessori method where self-led learning and learning through play are at the centre of how to educate. The building does everything it can to help this to happen.

Image above ^ : Circular roof, creating a never-ending playground for the children

Fuji Kindergarten is was known to be the “World’s Best Kindergarten” - Ted. Base on what we know kindergarden is for age 4-6 years old, it is important at this stage that they show interest in learning and communicating with other users. - similar age range in singapore young neighbourhood. Therefore, we analyaze and understand what makes this kindergarden so unique and how play is being introduce in a school setting.

The openness of the whole building inspires movement.Thus, it is important to leave sufficient space to roam around freely but still permeable.

Image right > : Cirrcular roof playground, helps them to be self-discovering through crawling,climbing & running

Singapore playground about Mr Khor Ean Ghee was the creator of these concrete playground. His aim is to more interactive playgrounds for the children of the estate. what unique about these playground is he took inspiration from the local cultural heritage and created a series of landmarks that would forever remain etched in the childhood memories of generations of Singaporeans.

In term of familiarity > In the looks of Noguchi works it looks like Singapore past iconic playground, Dragon playground, the space that is once love by the kids and now alike.

Image below: Blk 240 in Toa Payoh Lorong 1 was estimated completed in 1985.

- https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/revisiting-toa-payohs-iconic-dragon-playground

^ With the comparism of both play space, the same spot to the same functions such as a stairs a platform slide. This question us, which look more fun? To me is the concrete playgrond it hold the interest of imaginative play. With the analysis we concluded that safety might be a concern, but it is important that we should not lose the awareness and the imaginative part of playing.

- https://thenewageparents.com/singapore-old-playgrounds/

Replacement of concrete playground Due to the raise of the safety concerns of play space. It is now being replace with plastic manufacture playground that deem safety for play. However, the change has cause estate play spaces look equally the same. The plastic playground shout safe play rather than adventurous play. Thus, there a need to questions towards play in Singapore, not at the playground itself how can play be found in others aspect as well.

In ref to Fuji Kindergarten` Tezuka also focuses the holistic developemtent of the children first before deciding the factor of the elements. Tezuka knows children love to play and bounce on nets and hammocks, so this was an opportunity for another mode of play time. He is not wrong, when is playtime, kids like to hang out around the tree netting which is known to be their favourite play space as they get to climb, jump and rest. The conclusion is that the desire of fun should not just lies on the ergoneromic of safety but the idea of does it look fun ? does it seek user to have fun?

Image below & above: Playscapes, Piedmont Park, Atlanta, 1975–1976

“ I think of playgrounds as a primer of shapes and functions; simple, mysterious, and evocative; thus educational ”. -Isamu Noguchi

Atlanta Playscapes are a start—have stared a larger discussion about landscapes of play for the future

Isamu Noguchi about He is Known for his sculpture and public artworks. An examples, Atlanta @ Piedmont Park. The playscape which play with the idea of up, down, and around, similar to our understanding of playground. However what make this playground so unique is the outlook of these sculpture shape playscapes. When designing these playcapes Nogochi does not have a standardization of what is look like or the safety aspect but focuses on the best way on how to get children moving, thinking, and exploring the natural world instead. What we can learn from him is purely looking at how children play in spaces and what defines play in children.

- https://www.hermanmiller.com/stories/why-magazine/the-story-behind-isamu-noguchis-playscapes-in-atlanta/

INSPIRATIONS

-1– Tree all around

-2– Sense of smell & texture

-4– Create anticipation

-5– Seeing a part of it

How did I learn from this? When I was watching this scene, it makes feel curious of what ongoing next, though there might be some obstacle ahead, I am able to use my use my senses and detach the spaces. Following the source of light to a new path. It taught me the ride of experience a user needs in space for allow people to wander and discover new things and throughout the occurrence finding something fruitful in the space.

The series of images below v Is taken from the movie of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. The scene is where Willy Wonka set on the adventure to find ingredients for creation of treats. This particular scene is selected to explore how an individual can uses the physical experience to experience the space. Additionally, how the surrounding elements able to add or aid the process. How emotions can affect us as user in space.

-3– High and low of grounds

-6– view of the whole place , give a wow factor

How can I applied this series of emotion experience in space? Firstly, understanding the typologies of the chosen site. Identify opportunity of behaviors of performance in the space itself. Secondly how does the surrounding will or has influence on the user experience. Thirdly viewing all these opportunities con how I can amplify the user experience better.

Elements of fun ^ The image above shows a site in the neighborhood. It is common to find this kind of transitional sheltered pathway for the user, nearing any roadside. It is recognizing the pattern and rocky bump of the floor is to slow the user down when walking in this area for safety purposes, especially for the user with wheels such as a bicycle. In case they hit the car at the side as there is no physical barrier. However, it still gives children an opportunity to have fun in this area. Such as hoping to each pattern like the hotch scotch or even dared each other no to step the line of circumference of the irregular circle. The supporting structure sre use to aid the fun process , by climbing on it, swinging from one pole to the other.

GROUND WORK Then there it is; the pause what are the signs of play in the neighbourhood other than playground?

Pockets Spaces These architecture elements are a common design that is found in the neighbourhood it has spaces that for all ages to seat around and chill. This spaces have become a fun spot as the stain from this white wall show us the usage pattern of this space.

This neighbourhood highlight in the words of Isamu Noguchi that yes we do not need actual structure elment of playgroung to play but the surrounding elements to signal playing in space.

< Lots of green spaces Well planted greens spaces surrounding the neighborhood. Sufficient tree which acts as canopy of shelter in these open space.

What are the typologies of the site that needs to highlight and note? we analyse the amenities and facilities around the chosen site to look for opportunities.

Playground & amenities v not far from the choosen site a playground can be found nearby. Allowing opportunites for users to expand their playneeds.

Circulation connected > A key pathway that connect all different area and admenities such as playground. This space created opportunities of different user to crosspath with each other sparking interactions.

Various opening & walkway for user > The open layout in the space allows user to move around freely. These wide spaces make these place refreshing and cooling.

< Selected site The void deck at first thought is empty but at this particular site is not. Thanks to the amenities nearby, as seen from others images. It acts as a central area between neighborhood spaces, allowing people to crosspatch and interact. This is a good area as we aim to invert play u our daily lifestyle while in the space.

Site Overview Plan ^

Light and Shadow > The light ray will fall into space in different part of the day

PRO

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- C2 Directional ^ The center column allow user to come in and out esily from either side

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< Opening same equal opening at the sides - C3 –

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Series of photo how the chosen site look like (C= Camera view) We analyse the surrounding elements of the space and how it affect the user journey in space.

ED DUC ESK OD AUT AN BY

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^ Scale one side is wider, people tend to walk there more. DEN STU

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< Human Traffic It can be seen as people when in and out of the space easily thanks to the mulutple opening in the site.

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Route > people like to enter in and out due to the ramp - C4 –

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The RAMP of convenient It can be seen as a make shift ramp. But its show the most ergonomics of the people using this route to different area .

Transitional space the area of the void deck is constantly being utilized thanks to the ramp. It shows how short cut like this make user experience much better.

The iconic Bench The bench that is once thought just a place to seat a short while but it can be seen that residence in the space wanted to find a place they can call their own

Both Inside & outside When the weather is good, you can find kid roaming around the space playing.

Running up & down the same ramp but to the childrens is a werid angle for accerlation speed.

Series of photo what are some of the users behavior the space The images are taken different days and timing. Is interesting to see same spot with varieties of activities happening around.

87 Playing Group of kids playing catching and soccer in the void deck.

Chit Chat it can be seen as a spot where user come to meet together and spent ome liesure momments.

Rest & Wait the position of this encourage opposite end to interact with each other.

EXPLORATIONS Model Making > The aim of the model making is to explore the hierarchy in space and the continuity of the object. Plus, on how to accommodate different existing activities as seen in the previous page and how the new intervention can maximize and bringing new opportunities with these existing features and not spoil the organic of the human traffic at the front.

< In reference to The Blue ribbon In this public exhibition space, located at the intersection of two pedestrian streets. The highlight of this space is how the scales in the exhibition are taken into condsiderations to foster interactions among kids and adults in a virtually enclosed space.

- https://100architects.com/project/blue-ribbon/

< Model Making Exploring different humps and bumps. Mold the shape and scale of the interventions base on different activities needs such as seating lying and playing in spaces.

DESIGN INT It is common to find big open ground level void deck spaces. This creates a opportunity to provide a setting for inventions to occur, making use of the existing cultural and infrastructure.

The Choice of colour > is choosen in a way to give signal of risk playing in the space. As such at a certain height users who are using the space to indicate to take note of their own personal safety. Example : Red- Highest zone Yellow - Moderate Blue- NeutralSsafe

^ The image above is the actual site of the space, the orginal use of the space is use as a transitional pathway for users.

Above image (Self Render) ^ The choice of rendering the image outcome is to keep the identity of continous fun and show that everyone can take a part in the craft of the neieghbourhood space.

ERVENTION

^ The image above is the real time when daylight falls into the space. Allowing shadows silhouette of hierarchy of design inventions and amenities shape on another flat surface. Having the shadows moves throughout the day gives rise to something unique.

^ The choice of material The colouful “ground” of the space is a continuous EPDM rubber surface, which is soft and topographical

The bumps ^ generating ergonomic shapes that can be used for many different group ages as well as for different activities such as climbing, seating, lounging and more

< The Image at the left At first impression, it appears like a cluster of hills but just a little smaller in scale. These wide empty void deck spaces have allow opportunity of open shaded areas for play. Invites the idea of play can be any part of the day regardless of weather. The size of the design intervention is taken into consideration to allow a level of experience in the space. As mention before giving the user “A ride of experience” allowing them to paint a picture of what these humps can be, allowing creativity to flow and having a sense of ownership in the space they are in.

< Play Sructures Apparatus are place in the space to signal opportunity of how to use these spaces. such as clumbing, balancing seating and etc.

The Image at the right > Users in the space can gain a tactile learning experience in a building open to its surroundings. Activities that is experience develop the strength and motor skills, which can be integrated into learning and lifestyle.

Above image (Elevation) ^ Physical play is not delimited to certain times of day and activities to develop strength. and motor skills are likewise not separated from “normal” actions but integrated into the habitual motion of the user in space, especially children. Unusual spatial configurations in the within the ground level and the available facilities around it encourage new forms of play and socialisation—fostering a fitness to learn as well as to grow.

Above image (Elevation) ^ The intervention is of the design proposes not to separate the motions of play structures, but rather to integrate them into the circulation of the HDB ground level itself. Selected area contains with trampoline, tunnels, netting and seating for students and all ages to be a part of move in experimental and unconventional ways of exploring these spaces.

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By recognizing the role of play and learning not just lies on the playground. Inclusively we do not need like exact element of play structure to enhance the play experience. As seen, what we need is to invite more space to spark the intention of free play or I can say risky play in these spaces. Strengthening the identity that all ages needed the identity of play. It designs intervention may have a greater impact on the children as compared to the adult. However, the adults being able associate and the spectator of the children development able to keep relationships fresh and exciting still between users.

PART 3 In this final chapter I will be having a conclusive discussion of personal thoughts about the ground level spaces at the void deck of the Sengkang neighborhood. Do void deck spaces today fulfill the needs of the residence? is there even a need for a new intervention in place? In part 1 and 2 we have been discussing the way how Sengkang residences actually interact with the space. we realize that the “ways of seeing” and the need of “play” in the communities is something that drive the communities and how the possible intervention have encouraged the opportunities in the neighborhood to interact and have a sense of fulfillment in spaces. However, I cannot deny it seems as I am just focus of what the definition of what is needed to be included in the space and how it is able better cater the residences. I forgot the space itself. Yes, the space, void deck. “more than just a void” not amenities around the void deck, not people interaction in the void deck, just the 4-sided planes that defines void decks.

What so Intriguing about these corners in the neigbourhood Void Deck? The Identity of the void

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THOUGHTS

Many corner spaces> in this neighbourhood, the block is design in a way that have many pockets of spaces as been seen in the site overview plan. Which leads to the void seem more smaller and cramp.

Can this be small spaces an opportunity? More than just a void in the first few project is always people first towards the void deck and how it can better cater the differences users and benefits the community. However we have yet to consider the space itself towards the people. “why are you designing in such way and implement this here? it loses the identity of the void deck.” --- Feedbacks It help me realieze it may not just implementation or designing in which to be able to better cater for the usesrs but the understanding of the qualities of the space itself is eaqually important. In this up coming project i will be putting myself in a stand point to concern about the space first before the user. First with seeks the arcitctual qualites of the space.

The qulities of the void deck These are some qualities that i admire in the void deck spaces:

How the foregound of the bright space form the surface

The frame of the void deck, encourage directional movement of moving forward

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Site Overview Plan ^

What the first impressions of the void itself? The beauty of the void deck is the wide-open spaces that allows the light to fill in the space but it is the light that allows to define the size of the space and the darkness makes us fill the enclosure of the area

How can an object implement to effective as a void deck?

Each frame capture something different

Architectual Qualities A source that I refer to is Peter Zumthor book of atmosphere. In the book it shares that notion of the environment atmosphere is relations between the architectural and the surroundings.

It is evident from the previous personal conclusion about the space, it was strongly influence of the surrounding features like the lights and shadow

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what are some if the atmospheric qualities that can look into the void deck itself ?

Book Title: Atmospheres Author: Peter Zumthor

Zumthor describe the perception of atmospheres, and how one must take into consideration nine different qualities to achieve this. A process of observation and appreciation is crucial as he proceeds to explain that architecture is not merely an automated, apathetic process but one that involves emotive feel and human understanding. It is an art that engages people and highly influences their state of mind, engaging all senses. In addition, Zumthor mentions 3 more things that “move him”. when he speaks about “Achitecture as Surroundings” he means that buildings might be saved as memories, in our asscoicition with a particular event, and live in our minds. While during the design of his objects Zumthor also focus on the “consistency” of the place, use and form in the architecture. Lastly, he mentions one aspect, which enforce him to go back to the beginning and start all the work, again is the designing of “ The beautiful Form”.

what classifies the void deck is the encore memories that we have: The interactions that take place and memories to be created although being lost and empty but is the personal reflection about the missing piecememories.

Precedent

Memories of the space I came to a realization that void deck acts as like a journey of process. From surroundings to space, space to people and people to memories. The inter relationship of the void deck is systems to our memories, is something we need to value. Not to base on the concerns about what amenities place cater the user needs but the emotions want connections needed to the space, that leads to the co relationship with surroundings with the people to understand the value of these spaces. Personally, the identity of void deck is lies on the memories. However today void deck memories lies on the wants, it doesn’t evoke any personal human engagement of good memories.

How can i create a good journey experiences?

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How can people relate to the combination of space and human work harmonious together?

My design intention is to creates an intervention these memories point to allow them to reminisce of the past. reexperience the experience of every movements, by the sparks of a trigger a moment of the memory. Thus, allowing to work harmonious together and not destroying each identity.

Can this current intervention can impact the user in the mnmories and not spoil the identity of the void deck?

INSPIRATIONS The architecture acts as one of the trigger points of memories in the void decks. How can I not lose the characteristics of the spaces, even though there a new intervention inside? The first thing about implementation of the new intervention is to respect the original facade identity.

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Building facde and landscape.

Facade identity As seem like the image above, are some of the qualities that need to be respected are: Rhythm of the columns/ structure Fluidity of the space Pocket of spaces

Plan of the site

while creating the new intervention there is a set of qualities of rules to follow. In which what was mentioned above, Rhythm of the columns/ structure, Fluidity of the space, Pocket of spaces. These qualities mainly focus on the outlook of the space. Any interventions that fail to meet the qualities of spaces will lead to tarnishing of the qualities of the void deck, losing the accents.

Russian Doll

In this part we explore the different ways on how we can create extra portable space in the neighborhood and not ruin the exist pocket spaces. The ideations are to use a mechanism the allow the interventions to fold or collapse, blending in with the architecture surface and not affect the rhythms of the structural elements.

nua l Fa

The mechanism gives the opportunity to give the users to decide whether they want to have a new space in the surrounding context the act of creating a new space with the intervention can trigger a level of memories towards the space. Awning act as a secondary struture attach to the horrizontal surface of the building. Commonly found in the use of public space/gardens. The familiaity of the products able users to react and adapt to it without much gudiance. louvre window

Many of these elements of products can be found and be seen in Singapore context

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Do people still need extra space? Even though the void deck suggest so much space?

Old sch Metal gate

These products suggest a memories of their ife experience, but most important it show the affordance of the intervention is able to suggest the actions they can take. Although it fits the architecture qualities of the space. However, the sense of fostering interaction is not evident still. How can I spark interactions further?

Memory + Play= Positve Enviroment Can the act of playing be in the process of memories ? In part 2 we explore the power of play to the public, highlighted that the spontaneous of excitement and personal choice of actions drive a positive atmospheric experience in the surrounding the space which can led to more positive communities’ outcome. So, we take a step back to play spaces. what is the element regardless of age will be able to enjoy and evoke the experience and be part of the memory’s pointer?

ideation

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It’s hard to describe the feeling of watching crowds of people hurrying along the sidewalks, then suddenly seeing someone break away, take a seat, and start swinging.

Swing of Memories there is something about being on a swing that offers the experience of pure joy and freedom. Swings can transform a mundane environment into an opportunity to play. The image above is a swing that can commonly found in the landscape of Singapore, an element that dated back but still popular till today. Even though there is no manual guide to use it, passer-by seen to know how to use it automatically without further notice.

It’s like love.There’s a feeling of instant affection for any individual who would stop everything and just take advantage of the moment, allowing users to get swept away.

Some mechanism that is observe have a similar use and looks towards the identity of swing.

Button Seat Swing stand alone, ride on

Chair Seat Swing a comfortable support

lounge Seat Swing lay in the sway

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Back to Back Swing Ride of the pirateship

long log Swing eveyone lets come aboard

U Swing together we can

Big Pizza Swing every part is going to be enjoy

Face to Face Swing All eyes on you

Ready to Fly Swing grab, run and fly

Vaiariation of swings, are take into considerations to explore the opportunities of monents what makes an identity of swing? hanging, swaying, platform and rope string alike.

Jumping off the swing while is in mid- air

Platform of fun the continue motion of the swing moving itself

Hugging i want to continue and play

Exhilaration the higher the better

Fly Be a superman

Meditate tranquil and chill

Seating ust chilling, with a light fidgit

Standing Challenge oneself and mechanism

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Share Lemon squeezy and talk

Overturn unbeliever heights

Psser-By convo starter

Undersurface dont touch the floor

OBSERVATION < Not just swing of memories but the swing of opportunities, theses are diagrams at the left side shows some ways how a swing can be interpreted by the users. The beauty is that there is no a specific standards to used a swing. Thus, allowing to see a viariations of motions by the users althought the same product is place.

Moving on It represents well for the intention of the project, bringing emotions trigger. The swing at the first look normal mechanism found in playgrounds but is the intention flash of memorise “when I was young”, of you having fun using the mechanism, sparking joy to the mind. I hope that the intervention of products has this kind of emotional trigger. When you may not be using it as often, however by the thoughts of it, being part of the experience. Thoughts of happy memories that bring on with the mechanism.

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EXPLORATIO

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1st Model : Free flowing Up to the user to use the fabric, however it will make the place look messy & inconsistent. 2nd Model: Same Height It is fix what happen if user do not want to use it? at the end not providing the community. 3rd Model: Single Element It shows case the attention of the product itself but did not show interaction as its own. need supporting element 4th Model: Varying of scale It allows to have a sense of movement in space, but it is fix doesn’t have a choice of changing up.

The Aim of the object at the end of the day focuses on the object with the fluidity of transition and space and through these experiences, Giving opportunities to have good memories being bulid up and foster sentimental relationship.

< Model Makings As the intervention is going to be place in the site . it is impostant how its realtes to the surrounding context. we explore the ways of how the fabric can be control through the vairiation of scale and height. Fabric with site context^ the translucency of the object peak through the surroundings context, blending in giving a mysterious mood. The intention of the fabric can bring out the intentions of not overarching the identity of the void deck as it still can been seen.

The point is not just cast beautiful shadow to beautify the experience of the space, but the sense of awareness and comfort is equally important.

Light & shadow > The comparison of the shadow out cast between one and multiple folding. One being more distinctive while the other the shadow is blurry. The identity of the shadow in this case is important cause it showcases what around them. An example in which with a new shadow of the human form is display at the back, they will be aware, feeling secure while using the intervention.

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DESIGN INTERVENTION

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Isometric View

< The ideation is to provides enough resistance to allow both children and adults alike to move or interact with the objects. Not limiting the options to the user. Probabably the only thing that stops the user of using differently ways is their imaginations to do so. Choice Of Fabric is chosen in a way that blends in context of the neighbourhood space. An elastic and sheer fabric brings a level of intimacy and privacy with the object and human, feeling as one

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PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

Plan Fabric overall outlook with light

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

Front

Elevation (expand/enclose)

< Specifications of objects Soft and stretchy material allows the width up to 1.5 M wide & 2.6M long. The highlight of this is able to move one place to another and easily replace and reproduce. The collapsible feature allows it save sufficient space around.

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

The intervention > of this corner is to encourage people to interact with each other. Making short interaction time meaningful by the act of actions and seeing. Making use of the actions of “waiting” as an opportunities to implement new system so that users at the neighbourhood would not few something different disturbing the existing identity of the space.

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> The fabric enclosure allows filtered natural light to partially illuminate the space Encourage movement Many passerby like to wait around the this area. Taking the opportunity for small engagement between users. example such as:

Saying “Hi” to passer- by Both front & back

Sharing of seats intimacy between users

Helping Out Moving of object to start a first covo

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This corner space is situated at the fore end of the neighborhood. Although the traffic of children’s is not the heaviest here but however this area is seemed more favorable to the families, adults, and seniors. Due to the pickup/drop off point and nearest walkway to the traffic light, to safety alight to new destinations.

Site Traffic light Drop off

Colour Of Fabric such as white, to gives off a comfortable, freshness, and simplicity feeling. while yellow bring out a pop of excitement ti the surrounding giving a optimism and energy vibes.

PRODUC

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PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

The point of ingteractions of each area have it own characteristics, map that jotney the point of explorations .

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

Plan

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

RSION Front

Elevation (expand/enclose)

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

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CED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION Location of the intervention> The grid system layout is place around the sides of the space. As the intervention is collapastable is able to tuck at the side not disturbing at the identity of the space. Reason of the Location The original of the space is just a transitional space, by placing at the middel of transitional path allows to interfer the passage ways of the people promoting a change and foster new behaviour.

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

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Above image (Elevation) ^ The intervention is place at the ceiling to seek the mood of the swing, an identity that cannot seems to fail to attract different age group. Although it may be just an area of waiting space but however it makes the experience while waiting worth well. The act of spontaneous play and the uncoincidental interaction with the transitional passer-by allow to spark any new memories- a new face you know in the neighborhood and a new person to have a small gesture to when seeing the person another time.

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT V

Ways Of Using Imagine it as a swing ... hammock... a chair... navigator... shelving... aerial Yoga... cribe...

Conclusion As we have seen Void deck is not a fix element. The endless unchanging and creation of the void deck challenges the planning of the urban fabric. The forms of interventions seem to change every single time when a new voice is heard. Similar to my site visits experience without fail every time I visits the site it felt that I am new to the space, I do not know what to expect to see and feel. Though I have notice certain similar behavior that allow me to conclude something of each space it just not defines what it is at the end. I would say i am bias in my decision of what i seen and expect myself to observe to serve my needs in concluding my approach. Like the interventions itself, every person will interpret it differently. Maybe that why the simpler somethings is it is always seemed harder. But the beauty definitely lies on the unexpectant experience journey in the neighborhood while heading to the destination (home). It may seen as an intrusive by itself. However as we view the wider area and the connections around the void decks, turning inside out. The interventions has allowed the normally vacant and unused landscape area to come alive and be integrated into the fabric of the estate. Bringing back the kamong spirit, harmonious, the first intention of what void deck is for residences in the neighbourhood. What is the Void? At the end, sometimes, by trying to fill a void with many other thing making us question everything that is fill is apporiate and caters for the people. Nonetheless by filling the void make us human as we realieze the void. Maybe the other way round, embracing and experience oneself which make the void so much attractive.

Closing

thoughts

Having to do with Singapore ground spaces has been a privilege as an interior design student to work with the interior environment, which is similar, creating and modifying it for what I believe is better base on different precedent and theoretical framework. However, designing a Void deck has been a challenging process for me. It not just looking at the interior environment space itself but the connection between presence and the absence of interior and architecture, as well as the connection between society and the natural (nature) environment in the neighbourhood. The constant emphasis on reviewing what the void deck really needs has provided new ways of seeing and transform the potential space for a better urban kampung living experience in the void deck. My experience with Project 1 to 3 has been a rewarding, enriching experience. Although what I concluded in each void deck spaces will or do the trick of better providing for the people from my personal perspective. But is not suggest alternative activities that might enliven the void deck. The void deck has been a community activity, not that I believe, and I observed and survey in this 1 year will do enough. A community in the area is still needed to be part of this constant discussion, as it implies territorial questions around the constitute of the urban fabric. I would like to say that I have “stepped out of my bounds,” taking a subject that was at first very familiar to me but actually quite alien to me. There is something inherently invigorating when one steps out of a comfort zone into the unknown and has the opportunity to look at things from a different viewpoint. The ever possibility of the void deck has only begun to develop in my design curiosities all over again. I look forward to this profound topic of this challenge.

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The void is that which stands right in the middle of ‘this’ and ‘that’. The void is all-inclusive, having no opposite - there is nothing which it excludes or opposses. It is living void, because all forms come out of it and whosoever realizes the void is filled with life and power and the love of all things.

Since when I was young, void decks spaces has brought a great significance in my childhood, meeting and making new friends, a space that I could roam around and feeling safe despite without any parental supervision. As I grew, I am recognizing the decrease in usage of void deck spaces. Making a slight noise or even using up the space felt never before awkward. Are there any efforts that is possible to put in to revitalize the spaces? With community-based activity at its center. The process capitalizes on a local community’s assets, inspiration, and potential, and it results in the creation of quality public communal spaces that contribute to people’s health, happiness, and wellbeing. In these projects we will be re-imagine everyday spaces, and to see anew the potential of void deck as of today

Tan Rui Ting