As part of our Studio V project, we were assigned to design a social housing project, located in TaiChung.
I named my project, "D.iversity N.ature A.partments" - a social housing project that unfolds the ordered and systematic nature of DNA. It aims to bring the lifeless area of TaiChung (Taiwan) back to life.
This project was featured in CUHK Architecture Studio Exhibition
Role
Architectural designer
Team
Sophie Cheung Lead Designer Sebastian Law Tutor
Timeline
2017
Process
Site map - the site is adjacent to a strip of green at a gentrified area
Image of the area, viewing from the National Taichung Theatre - a newly built, popular attraction in the area.
Site map, as viewed on Google Maps.
01 | user research
Research
As part of our research, we visited TaiChung, Taiwan. Besides from visiting our site, we also visited several neighboring areas in TaiChung. For this site specifically, I noticed that the area of the site is filled with newly built luxury apartment buildings, the tourist attraction - National TaiChung Theatre as well as other local businesses. Charlotte Park is also a large strip of green that connects the area. Yet, as I walked along the area, I did not see locals utilizing the park. The area felt lifeless and lost to gentrification. The large luxury apartment buildings seemed vacant, and the green axis was empty.
Existing Site
No sense of community, streets deserted Very few people using green axis Feels lifeless
Solution
Promote social interaction and engagement Maximise diversity and light Bring the area back to life
Strategy
Inspired by the lifelessness of the area, I decided to explore and promote the concept of a "community" for this social housing. Having visited social housing, I noticed that the one element that this area in TaiChung did not have is the sense of community and warmth. To explore this concept, I went back to the beginning.
DNA. The most organic form of community that formed us, humans.
Inspired by nature, I aimed to create a community using the order and structure of DNA, made up by the bases, A, T, C and G. I designed 4 unit types, allocating each to be an A, T, C and G unit. Then, slotted them into the DNA structure.
Experimentation
Deliverables
Results
Since the rebrand, Reframe has seen an 800% growth, 1000% growth on Instagram. From 3000 users to 50,000 users in 9 months. From no ranking, to ranked #9 on Australia’s top health & fitness apps and over 6000 positive reviews from users.
Architectural Design | Graphic Design Visual Presentation | 3D Rendering
D.iversity N.ature A.partments - a social housing project that unfolds the ordered and systematic nature of DNA. It aims to bring the lifeless area of TaiChung (Taiwan) back to life.
