The programme for semester 2 consisted of two parts: a group masterplan and a related individual project. Our studio embarked on a trip to Siem Reap, Cambodia. During five days, we gathered as much data as we could to help us back in Singapore. Through this hands-on approach, we were able to experience the place, its character and the warm hospitality and conviviality of the Cambodians. This, to a certain extent, was helpful to anticipate some of the most common needs and issues that the town would face as it grows.

Siem Reap, like many South East Asian Villages grew from the river. Buddhism has had a heavy influence in the city and is shown through the the wats(temples); each having a unique character. They are traditionally at the crux of communities, dominating the skyline and commanding a clear connection to the river. However, with the heavy influence of tourism in the last 10 years, the city has undergone a haphazard growth, and this connection has slowly faded.

The Masterplan is conscious of the influence of tourism in the town and the tendency of Siem Reap to become a service town to the tourists with a sprawl of hotels and restaurants. While we agree that tourism is the backbone of the economy of the town, we also try, through educational and empowerment programs, to level the differences between local and foreigners so that there can be meaningful exchange between them.

Above are some of the broad strokes and concepts underlying the Masterplan.

Tutor: Richard Ho

Credits are due to the students of Richard Ho Studio.group 2008

Prior to this particular project, an extensive study was carried out along Balestier Road as a studio group.Sites for future development or redevelopment were identified. Students proceeded to choose one site to develop a theatre program based on Indian Dance or Chinese Theatre.

Originating from South India, Bharata Natyam is more angular, symmetrical and mathematical in its approach. Danced to carnatic music, Bharata Natyam has a more Appolonian approach. Its form is predictable, precise and organised.

To the dancer, Bharata Natyam dance requires meticulous preparation (Prologue) and prior meditation (Ascension) is necessary to achieve a trance state to allow the Gods to possess their limbs and perform(Climax).

Its  appreciation requires prior knowledge (Ascension) of the spiritual, cultural and mythical heritage surrounding it and an understanding of the movements that usually performed by the dancer to convey epics of Gods and Goddesses.

Design Intent

In its front, the urban & dense traffic of Balestier Road, to the back, the serene Balestier hill rises. The idea is to transit people from the mundane pedestrian level to that of a higher meditative level through spaces of contemplation, to be in the mood to appreciate this art form. A screening strategy is adopted to the mediate between the busy & noisy street and the serene interior.

The Prologue

Emotions arise since you, as the audience, approaches the ticketing office to buy the tickets for the events. Whereas in the performer, it builds up from the very first day he sets up the play.

The Ascension

Transition from the hustle bustle of Balestier Rd into a serene journey for the spirit and the soul. The visitor bathes in a series of activities and spaces for contemplation.

The Climax

The theatre, stage & audience is the climax of these emotions. The dance is the offering made to the gods. Emotions are shared…

Submitted for RIBA Part 1.

Tutor: Mizanur Rashid

These serial visions, aim to convey and contrast the different characters of Clarke Quay and Boat Quay. For this 2 persons assignment, several walks were taken at different times of the day along the Singapore River to better grasp the meaning of these two places and their similarities as well as their differences.

To better showcase the identity of these history laden places,  and due to certain time constraints, we produced photo rendered sketches via Photoshop. These were later traced upon and watercolored. Sketches were A4 sizes to achieve a high level of resolution upon scanning. When they were later reduced, they possess these very intricate details. Credits are due to Thierry Chan for his wonderful water colorings.