framework for the implementation of a virtual design studio model in ...

1. Introduction
The sole purpose of this workbook is NOT to assess your capacity of knowledge,
but is to encourage you to think for yourself. The lectures and studio time will
provide you with the inspiration, guidance and support you require to fulfil all
aspects of your brief, but the workbook will be your own account of your personal
development throughout the course of the studio. Please note that due to the
nature of the project, i.e. Amal’s Phd thesis, at the end of the studio your
workbook will be collected by the tutors to analyse results and assess your
contribution.
At the end of the workbook you will find several simple questionnaires pertaining
to your experience of the project.
Please answer all questions in this workbook as they have be specifically designed
to help you achieve the best possible results from this unique experience, but most
importantly we want you to enjoy the experience!
Day 1.
2. The Politics of Design
During the introductory lecture with Amal Al-Ali, we discussed how the political
ideology of a particular architect, namely Richard Goodwin, affects their design
concepts. Amal Al-Ali presented her liberal feminist views concerning the role
of women in the United Arab Emirates and how a particular philosophy is
crucial in architectural design. Her belief that women should have more
privacy, led her to visualise the Emirate with more and female only facilities.
This is an example of how a person’s political views can be interpreted in design
ideas. She also drew on Prof. Richard Goodwin, from the Porosity Studio, and
how his strong socialist perspective shapes the way in which he approaches
urban design; focusing on the social aspect of modern design rather than the
functional capitalist approach.
Activity: Go to Richard Goodwin’s website (http://www.richard-goodwin.com/) see
how his philosophy concerning the linkage between art and architecture dictates
his urban design concepts. Think about ways in which your political perspective
could form the basis of your design strategy. Sketch your ideas below.
Feedback (Cont. Overleaf)
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