INTERIOR DESIGN PORTFOLIO2013-2014

LOCATION MAP

SITE

Existing structure“Vava” Restaurant

Singapore’s ratio Religion / Race

All religions’ leaders blessing Singapore’s F1 track in 2013

Natural light study

Structure coexist with terrain

Dramatic use of natural light

Natural slit of light in negative space

Interlocking of structures

Connection of spaces emphasized with different material

The design is fully integrated with nature. Once the visitors of macritchie reservoir are in the jogging area, they will not be able to see the entire structure, because most of it is below ground level. Once un-derground, the users can sense a certain feeling of belonging and peace, since they are one with na-ture, which is essential for the practice of worshiping. To enter the complex, it is necessary to go through the restaurant area, which is seen as the core of the design and is also used as a source for donations. The philosophy of the restaurant is that patrons pay as much as they wish for meals and drinks. This way, people from all social levels can enjoy a beau-tifully designed space, as well as donate for social improvement projects that are set up by the five dif-

ferent religions. The food menu, kitchen and employ-ees also respect all the religious food habit rules, which includes Halal and Buddhist/Hindu vegetarian. The circulation was designed in a meticulous man-ner. For users to reach a destination, they have to make a journey that will pass at least one oth-er religious center. This circulation will cre-ate curiosity and improve relations between us-ers and that is the most sacred part of this design. Underneath the restaurant, there is a common area with active spaces that challenges the typology of furniture. Users may use structures as seating area or performance area, since one of the keywords of this project is freedom of expression and respect.

Each religious space has assigned a keyword. The Christian Church has the word water as its design feature. A wa-ter system was implemented in the roof of the church. Water slides down a glass panel that faces the woods so that once the user is sitting on the incorporated benches, he/she will face a water facade that will blur the beautiful outside and let a special kind of light in. Like this, one will not be distracted by what happens out-side the space since the view is not clear. The interior of the church does not only let the nature in through its glass/water fea-

ture, but it also coexists with the existing rock. The terrain exists symbiotic-ally with the space, providing structure to the roof as a wall would do. The roof terminates in this terrain, providing the user that is in the outside to walk on it and enjoy its light gra-dient. This space can be used for either sit-ting, picnicking or just for children to play. The materials of choice are all natural, including unpolished travertine and matt finished oak flooring. The outside is made out of unfinished concrete panels, which goes in accordance of all the other reli-gious centers.

Light is the keyword chosen for the Catholic Church. It is a symbol used since ancient times to create the feeling of inner peace and worship. The structure is provided with strategically positioned slits on the concrete whereby the light will go through. This space is also connected with nature in its interiors. Having the existing terrain also doubling up its function as a wall.

The Hindu Temple had “openness” assigned as its keyword. Hindu religion has a strong characteristic which is tolerating and embracing others, regardless of their beliefs. The design used this philosophy as its inspiration. The outside wall of the temple is the seating area of the central piazza of the entire complex. Once inside the temple, the first impression is that there are no boundaries since the roof is only located on top of the god`s statue, which is there to symbolize respect for the deity.

The Buddhist Temple uses the words “connection with nature” as its design key. To go inside the temple, one will walk on a wood-en platform. Once inside, the platform resumes onto a grass field, causing the feeling of being outside, yet within the boundaries of the walls. The roof, similarly to the Hindu Temple, protects the statue of Buddha, but in this case, half of it is in glass, with wooden louvers (similarly to the existing structure in which the restaurant is located). Like this, natural light reaches the space in a controlled manner. Be-low the glass there are also kneeling pads for meditation purposes, the practice of burning incense is also respected and a cylindric structure made of unfinished concrete is located in the center for this purpose.

Located below the restaurant, the Mosque uses the praying position of its worshipers as its design key. To enter the praying area, the user must step on a water feature located in front of the structure. The water runs from a big ball, located in its center, and this ball also represents the perfect shape (the circle, as believed by Muslims). Male and female areas are separated to avoid the distraction of the opposite sex. Women are located on the top level, which can be accessed by the staircase annexed to the side of the building.

Smoke is the key word for the Taoist Temple since its practitioners have the habit of burning paper and incense. The space is half way completely open, and the other half has a panel of perforated metal sheets that works not only for the smoke to pass through, but also light. A big paper burner is lo-cated on the totally open area, and it`s also constructed with the same metal that clads the temple. The god statue is located on a two-layered structure that can be used as an offering table, which is a common habit of this reli-gion`s practitioners.

The render on the right represents the front view of the religious complex which includes an emphasized existing structure and smaller annexes around it. All coexist-ing in harmony and respect to each oth-er in a negative/positive space manner. Structures of this complex were designed in accordance to the site and its arrangement tentatively reinforces human connection, leisure and self discovery through worship. The glass structure with louvers is an ex-isting restaurant that makes full use of nat-ural light.

Human interactions as sug-gested in the render on the left (nun and Muslim woman) is the project`s goal. Since the religious centers itself are not holy nor sacred, but the people`s interaction is.

SCALED MODEL

EXISTING STRUCTURE

Site: Jetty, arraival to the main village

Singapore

Pulau Ubin

PULAU UBIN

Optimal dimensions adjustment, according to site’s extentions.

Selection of three structures in the Jetty site. Extension of the structures in order to receive more morning sunlight. Following the tangent of movement grid.

Adjustment of the blue building’s roof in other to the yellow building to receive sunlight.

Positioning of a grid that originates form the first sight of each entrance spot.

Structures lift up cording to the view of each origin relevant to each site. Repositioning of the roof in other of cross ventilation to occur.

Roof Plan

A

A

B

B

A

A

B

BLevel 1

Mezzanine

Designed in accordance with the Kam-pong Traditions, Kampong Cove is a space where Singaporeans can feel reconnected with their culture and where tourists can discover the true identity of the land.

Both structures (Beach Park and Provision Shop) stand on stilts. An ancient tradi-tion on the art of building. This approach does not only guarantee the protection of the structure against animals and floods but more importantly it guarantee a cross ventilation under the building, lowering the temperatures inside the structure. Delicate attention to the site and the inheritance were taken. The theory of support “Decon-

structivism” provided an unconvention-al approach for the design, whereby the traditions were reinterpreted and empha-sized. For instance the “connection with the land”, this term was represented with the usage of “active spaces”, in those the area is not provided with furniture and the users may enjoy sitting on the floor or on areas that usually would not be allowed.

The choice of functions were also chosen to reconnect the user with their heritage. The provision shop also known as “mama shop” bring back memories of childhoods and of a time where the unplanned was beautiful.

Section A-A

Section B-B

The main attraction / activity on the is-land is cycling, once out of the main road the cyclists can unmount and enjoy the park or they can also cycle through the stilts an the two structures. The design focus on the fun of the user, an approach their aims to remind the population of their original values and traditions, in that sense locals will re-encounter their roots and the tourists discover a new Singapore, differ-ent than thickening else experienced in the area.

Apart form cycling one of the big reasons the site is visited is to reconnect with na-ture. For this reason the construction re-spects the existing greenery and empha-size its presence.

Beach Park entrance.

Beach Park mezza-nine overview.

SCALED MODEL

LOCATION MAP

Existing Structure

Benefits to the society

Costs to the society

THE ISSUE : THE GOAL :

For the past fifty years Singapore has been experiencing a big issue, the babies born per woman are below 0.8 (accord-ing to CIA fact book, 2013). This has resulted in much national debate, on how to encourage Singaporeans to get married and have more children. A hotel that provides ambiance for couples to get to know each other better and has private spaces for inti-macy moments, that celebrate love, complicity and marriage is the design proposal to collaborate to the society.

Perhaps the answer to this fundamental yet complex problem that Singapore is facing requires some ‘thinking out of the box’. Often the solution to a difficult problem requires stepping out-side the comfort zone, and to challenge and question all ex-isting boundaries. The recognition of the cultural and social demand of the times is only the beginning of an architectural creation. It is by discovering the inherent other within the chaos of the times and by respecting the values of various entities, that architecture can truly achieve the creative spirit pursued in that era. With the aim to provide a solution to the Singapor-ean nation, the design proposal is a hotel where couples can have their privacy respected in an intriguing and unconvention-al manner.

The design is based on the control of exposure. Form and func-tion coalesce into a symphony of meaningful, spatial and cen-sorial experiences that shapes the hotel’s purposes. Once on the street one cannot see the entire building, since it is lower than the street level (refer to section A-A). Hence, couples that are checking in would not be likely to go through a possible embarrassment.

A hotel that provides ambiance for couples to get to know each other better and has private spaces for inti-macy moments, that celebrate love, complicity and mar-riage is something not seen before in Singapore. There are already several hotels that cater to couples in need for such intimate moments together such as the Fra-grance Hotel and Hotel 81 chains, however these hotels often have a ‘sleazy’ reputation and lack a sophisticated and resort type of aesthetics that would attract the young modern crowd. For it to appeal to the target crowd, the hotel needs to offer a relaxed, stylish and discreet space. It also needs to have facilities and attractions that will offer young couples a suitable setting for them to inter-act. Responding to the concept of unity seen in the rest of the structure, a unique fifteen meters bridge connects

the public area to the atrium of the hotel. The atrium is a square-like form that cantilevers the back facade. A ramp goes around its interior, having as a point of reference the central staircase that leads to the ground floor. The periodical relation to this central structure provides orien-tation and prevent a feeling of being lost.

In the first storey of the atrium is located the restaurant, which is far extended to the exterior. The dining tables are positioned in strategic areas, controlling the exposure of couples and groups of friends. The area designated for bigger batches has an open kitchen concept, where patrons can enjoy the coking process of their meal. Op-posing to that is a space that provides two seats tables, appointed for couples who want a romantic yet engaging ambiance.

Al Fresco Dining and Swimmming pool

Perhaps the answer to this fundamental yet complex prob-lem that Singapore is facing requires some ‘thinking out of the box’. Often the solution to a difficult problem requires step-ping outside the comfort zone, and to challenge and question all existing boundaries. The recognition of the cultural and social demand of the times is only the beginning of an archi-tectural creation. It is by discovering the inherent other within the chaos of the times and by respecting the values of vari-ous entities, that architecture can truly achieve the creative spirit pursued in that era. With the aim to provide a solution to the Singaporean nation.

The design proposal is a hotel where couples can have their privacy respected in an intriguing and unconventional man-ner canteliverig from the main structure, the swimming pool has a panoramic view of the forest. Due to the “infinity pool

concept” its water falls down to the first storey. The swimming area is partially indoor and partially outdoor. Under that is the cinema and the Al Fresco dining, where the users can enjoy partial privacy within the boundaries of canopies that face the greenery located behind the building. Once in the Al Fresco it is also possible to appreciate the water feature that comes from the swimming pool above.

From the atrium the user have access to the rooms area. The rooms are arranged in a modular manner. Three floors of “blocks” are staggered on top of each other. To create a feeling of light weight, the support of those “blocks” are 500 millimeters recessed from its edge. And to create a feeling of unity they do not touch each-other. The negative spaces cre-ated by the non-touching blocks will be filled with a garden, therefore it creates a “fusion” with the woods located in front of them.

Lounge

Bar

Swimming pool

Feature Wall

Entrance

Rooms

Cinema

Al Fresco Dining

Section A-A Elevation 1

To be unconventional is to act, dress, speak, or otherwise exist out of the bounds of cultural norms. Anything that’s nonconformist or out of the ordinary can be de-scribed as unconventional. Every culture has its own conventions — or norms — and what may be unconventional in one region might be typical in another. The perception of what’s unconventional is determined by context.

Every human being needs the feeling of being unique and important, somehow this gives us reasons to be who we are. Having something different than the mass makes individuals, creates identity. It is no different with design. For a structure or a space to be remarkable and worth other`s attention, something has to spar-kle curiosity and has to redefine the rules. Humans do not view space distantly as if through a frame. Rather it is people who define space through the process of perception. Sashi Caan (2011, pp.41) states that “Between our interior selves and the exterior world lies a seres of literal and perceived boundaries that we es-tablish. These barriers do not stop at outer limits to our bodies, and comprise our

second skins.” Designers, therefore, must not limit their dealings with the physical environment; rather they must stimulate feelings. A dynamic flux of the self is created when one step in a built environment that has as philosophy to challenge the usual.

Apart from the jurisdiction of structural form and light, it is also believed that the choice of materials bring into space certain atmospheres. The material palette for both interior and exterior, includes the selection of local resources, adhering to building’s context and role. As a whole, you see a modern structure that balances the sensitiveness between a contextual form response, and the assertiveness of a societal improvement.The atrium’s second and third storey is designated for the younger couples and singles. The form provides interaction, tables and the circulation forces interaction by locating the bar area and the bathroom in opposite positions.

Atrium

Bedroom

With capacity for 50 people the unconventional de-sign provides privacy and entertainment for couples. Every two seats are inside a cubical form that is unique-ly positioned. The cinema is also partially indoor and partially outdoor creating a unique experience.

Overall the hotel complex is a place where couples can enjoy themselves and take their time with each other. By knowing each other better chances are bigger for families to be composed. This is in keeping with the Singapore government’s current effort in boosting the national birthrate.

SCALED MODEL

SKyLINE CHESSG.O.D. design competition

A perfect souvenir for the cerebral tourist, the Singapore based Skyline Chess set, celebrates the iconic architecture masterpieces of the island nation. With this special souvenir, the usual chess pieces are represented by landmark buildings that are quintessentially Singaporean, such as Marina Bay Sands, Singapore Flayer, Merlion, Super Tree from the Gardens by the Bay, Singapore Art-science Museum and the Pearl Bank Apartment Block. The materials cho-sen for this object is black stained wood. To diferenciate the opponent pieces some are high polished and the others have a matte finish.

The Singapore Skyline Chess is not only a beautiful object, it also makes a social statement. Marina Bay Sands dominates as the main tourist attractions, bringing in unparalleled revenue for the country. The Singapore Flayer is the glittering trophy of the local skyline, the Merlion is possibly the most traditional icon, the Super Tree of the Gardens by the Bay represents the country’s as-piration to be a sophisticated Garden City. Last but not least the Pearl Bank Apartment block is the pioneering high-rise private residential housing.

SINGAPOREAN CHESSG.O.D. design competition

A perfect souvenir for the cerebral tourist, the Singapore based Skyline Chess set, celebrates the iconic architecture masterpieces of the island nation. With this special souve-nir, the usual chess pieces are represented by landmark buildings that are quintessentially Singaporean, such as Marina Bay Sands, Singapore Flayer, Merlion, Super Tree from the Gardens by the Bay, Singapore Art-science Mu-seum and the Pearl Bank Apartment Block. The materials chosen for this object is black stained wood. To diferenci-ate the opponent pieces some are high polished and the others have a matte finish.

The Singapore Skyline Chess is not only a beautiful object, it also makes a social statement. Marina Bay Sands dom-inates as the main tourist attractions, bringing in unparal-leled revenue for the country. The Singapore Flayer is the glittering trophy of the local skyline, the Merlion is possibly the most traditional icon, the Super Tree of the Gardens by the Bay represents the country’s aspiration to be a sophisti-cated Garden City. Last but not least the Pearl Bank Apart-ment block is the pioneering high-rise private residential housing.

OGEE BENCHOrchard Gateway design competition

The “Ogee Bench” is a piece of furniture spe-cially designed for the brand new fashionable and innovative shopping mall “Orchard Gateway”. Its firm is unconventional, remarkable and sensitive; which goes alongside with the philosophy of the mall’s project.

Since fashion is one of the top reasons why peo-ple go to a shopping mall, it was chosen as an inspiration for this design. The meaning of fashion can be subjective and wide, yet it can e subdi-vided to a simple sentence; which is this case is “anatomically fitted”. Clothes created for people are made to fit the body; some may be more com-fortable than others, however they will always bed made respecting the human body proportions. Subsequent to the designer’s interpretation of

fashion, the 1500 x 900 x 850 bench is in ac-cordance with the human body’s contours and proportions. One can find it secure for seating or leaning, but it is judiciously designed to not be comfortable for longer than 10 minutes. Given that it is not financially viable for the mall to have people only seating and not shopping. The ma-terial proposed for the bench is stainless steel, powder coated with pale beige color. Matching the pallet of the space.

Once put into the propose mall’s design the “Ogee Bench” doe not take attention away from the architectonic structure yet it stands out not only as furniture but as a piece of art. The design finds perfect harmony in the context.

IN THE BOTTLE Design Week , exhibition in Tokyo

KAMPONG COVEScaled model, Linking Cities exhibition

MOBILITyFDA design competition

This table is specially designed for compact spaces. a contermporary problem. The four chairs coexist with the table and form a perfect cube, where thins can be stored or exposed. The chairs can be shifted and the “cube” become a perfect place for study.

FDA design competition

CURVILINER 100% design competition

The bar stool, has a minimalist de-sign, which would fit and yet stand out in any ambiance. Its curves are especially created to embody the human anatomy, making sitting a whole new experience.

100% design competition

CURVILINER100% design competition

The shoe rack, also has a minimalist design. Its form are in accordance to the human anatomy, perfect to sit ans tie your shoe laces. Under the sitting area there is a space for shoe storage.

CARTONOVO CHAIRFDA design competition

The cartonovo chair is a rocking chair inspired by the recycling cycle. The subject of preserving the planet has been highly explored and might sound repetitive, but the truth is; for our world to be livable for the next generations we have to start incorporating reused items to our daily routine. That includes our furniture.

The proposed material for the chair is recycled card-board, not only an earth friendly material it is also very light and full of personality.

Furthermore the design of this chair is beyond appear-ances, it is a clean piece of furniture that concaves for a perfect fit of the human body. The bottom part is oval shaped for the movement of “rocking” to be possible. And it is movement resemble the “back-and-forth” of our biosphe. It will bring confort and fun for any ambiance.

ALINEDFDP design exhibition

Alined” is a paradigmatic rocking chair that has un-defined boundaries and yet it defines space. Equally spaced and aligned lines create the volumes and chal-lenges the conventional.

Once putting together a collection of lines the weight of the sitting person is divided between each loop of metal, providing what a single metal frame wouldn’t be able to.

The minimal use of materials makes the design eco-friendly and it is suitable for both indoor ans out-door, with an extremely low maintenance requirement.

Furthermore the design of this chair is beyond appear-ances, it is a clean piece of furniture that concaves for a perfect fit of human body.

PHOTOGRAPHy

Cape Town, South Africa

Sentosa, Singapore

Zürich, Switzerland

Athens, Greece

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