ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN PROJECT
P1A
PRE-DESIGN STUDIES & ANALYSIS
In this phase, my group and I will thoroughly investigate and analyze the site, which is in Georgetown, Penang. Our goal is to “sense the place,” understand its existing conditions, and connect our findings to the target users and project objectives, so we can develop the most suitable strategy and program.
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What we did as a group:
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Carry out site investigation using a townscape appraisal checklist through observation, research, surveys, and interviews.
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Refer to key urban design and public space literature to strengthen our understanding of the site and its context.
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Study relevant precedents to gain insights for the project and program.
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Define suitable program(s) for the site and analyze their potential impacts.
Reflection:
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This assignment was a meaningful experience for me, not just academically but also personally. As our final site visit in Penang for university, it felt special to be able to explore and study the location with my friends one last time. While we were focused on collecting data, observing details, and analyzing the site for our pre-design studies, there was also a sense of nostalgia knowing this was the closing chapter of our fieldwork together.
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Working as a group made the process more engaging, as we combined our observations and perspectives to get a fuller understanding of the site. The mix of academic tasks—such as applying critical thinking skills, referencing design literature, and looking at precedents—alongside shared moments with friends made the experience both productive and memorable. This trip reminded me that beyond the technical skills we gain, architecture is also about the people we work and learn with, and this visit was a perfect reminder of that.