Topic Proposal of the Water House - Asian Architecture 2016

1. Asian Architecture (ARC 2234 / ARC60403) Project 1: Case Study Paper
Topic & Issue Proposal (10%) Due Date: 26 April 2016
Prepare a two-page type-written proposal, including a concept mapping, a summary
of the topic and/or issue to be explored, some of the questions you hope to address,
along with a title, and an annotated bibliography of sources.
Student name and ID: YVONNE CHIN YUN MIIN 0315662
Tutor: MS NURUL ALIA AHAMAD
The Study to Achieve Thermal Comfort Using Vernacular Tradition
Chinese Design in The Water House
Vernacular
Tradition Chinese
Design
The Water House
Thermal Comfort
Yin & Yang Theory
Openness
Spatial Layout
& Orientation
Roof Construction
Building Material
Vegetation
Ventilation

2. Research Question(s):
1. What is the design concept of The Water House?
2. What vernacular tradition Chinese design took place in achieving thermal
comfort in The Water House?
3. Based on the contextual climate, what are the design responses of The Water
House?
4. How does the five features: vegetation, building material, ventilation, spatial
layout, and roof construction affect the achievement of thermal comfort?
Summary of the topic (300 words):
This paper investigates the relationship of vernacular tradition Chinese design with
the context in terms of design a contemporary building, which happens to be The
Water House. There are many ways of achieving sustainability through passive
designs with the knowledge of the surrounding environment, in order to reduce the
negative effects of environmental impact towards thermal comfort. Literature review
was conducted to gain a basic understanding of the traditional Chinese spatial layout
where an evaluation on how The Water House executed the spatial arrangement in
the modern context to achieve sustainability will be proceeded. Furthermore, the
design concept of the building is to be investigated, whether it aids thermal comfort.
Due to its location is in a seasonal country, an analysis and exploration will be
conducted to gain information upon the design response of the building towards the
climatic change. The features that are listed will be taken into consideration while
discussing this topic. Hence, this research will conclude whether the design of the
building is efficient or not in seasonal countries.
Annotated Bibliography
Hyde, R. (2000). Climate Responsive Design. Canada: E & FN Spon.
This book provides an introduction to the theory of climate responsive design and
defines its principles. It also explores a number of strategies that can be used in
design to improve the fit between use, building and climate. A focus is placed on
moderate and hot-humid climates.
Jodido, P. (2006). Architecture: Nature. Munich: Prestael Verlag.
The systems and strategies of ecologically-oriented design relating to nature are
presented and discussed through a range of case studies in Europe and South East
Asia.