Research - Style of Architecture.
As part of my major term project, I plan to design modern buildings that adopt a contemporary architectural style. My main goal is to create a modernized treehouse that offers future generations a nostalgic childhood experience. The building will be more appealing and attractive to the younger audience by incorporating modern design elements.
For this project, I am studying the works of Frank Lloyd Wright. Frank Lloyd Wright was a renowned architect who created buildings that blended harmoniously with their surroundings. He famously promoted the “organic architecture” concept, which focused on designing buildings in sync with nature. His significant achievements included his innovative designs and efficient space utilization. Wright is considered the “greatest American architect of all time” (by the American Institute of Architects) after spending seven decades in the field before he died in 1959. (2023) Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation
I am also studying about Ken Yeang. Ken Yeang is a renowned architect and ecologist who has been at the forefront of hyper-green architecture since 1971. His work is an ecosystem-based approach. His designs are unique and visually stunning, enhancing the local area's ecology and biodiversity. These designs are constructed as ecosystems, making them a sustainable and environmentally-friendly choice. (Buxton, P. 2023)
Lastly, I will be researching Zaha Hadid, an Iraqi-British architect who passed away in 2016 and impacted architecture immensely. She designed many iconic structures that are now part of major cities’ skylines. Additionally, her product designs, which include furniture, jewellery, lighting, and shoes, are widely used in homes worldwide. Hadid was known for pushing the boundaries of convention in her designs and is widely regarded as the most famous female architect of her time. (Architectural Digest, 2023)
A treehouse project interests me because it is “a structure built in or around a tree which interacts with and relies upon the tree for its support. It consists of a roofed platform that defines a sheltered space which may be fully enclosed for protection from the elements.” (The Treehouse Guide, 2023)
The definition of a treehouse is a debate among builders concerning the amount of ground support allowed. Some builders argue that a treehouse must be entirely supported by the tree. In contrast, others believe that some ground support is acceptable as long as the structure primarily relies on the tree. According to The Treehouse Guide, a structure built on posts fixed in the ground next to a tree is called a playhouse because it can exist without its support. Tree houses are often characterized by being vertical, upright, raised, and tall, and these features are also reflected in loft-style architecture.
“Since trees are naturally vertical in shape and often incorporated into the physical structure of a tree-house, most tree-houses are built with a vertical, upright aesthetic.” (WordPress.com Support. 2023)
The image above shares a similar concept to what I have in mind for my major term project. I focus mainly on using local wood from Sarawak, which will significantly reduce the project’s cost. I plan to use sturdy windows that can withstand the wind but provide a clear view of the surrounding scenery. Unlike the image above, I won’t need to use multiple trees as the foundation for the house. In Sarawak, plenty of large and robust trees can bear the weight of the house and serve as the primary foundation.
The image above is a preliminary representation of the architectural style I plan to follow for my project. I plan to use smooth materials and wooden walls to create a comfortable atmosphere. Additionally, I will install large windows that allow people to enjoy the surrounding view. The foundation’s supporting beams must be solid and reliable materials, such as steel, reinforced concrete, or polymeric. As you can see in the image, I also intend to design an outdoor patio for the house’s residents to use so that they can enjoy the wilderness at its best.
References
Embed a PDF file (2023) WordPress.com Support. Available at: https://wordpress.com/support/embed-a-pdf-file/ (Accessed: 07 November 2023).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) (no date) The Treehouse Guide - Definition of tree houses and playhouses. Available at: https://thetreehouseguide.com/faq-definition.htm (Accessed: 07 November 2023).
Nickson, R. (2019) Photo by Roberto Nickson on Unsplash, White and brown Labradoodle puppy near the house photo – Free House Image on Unsplash. Available at: https://unsplash.com/photos/white-and-brown-labradoodle-puppy-near-the-house-6FZf3yzuodE (Accessed: 07 November 2023).
Williamson, C. (2020) 10 modern treehouses we’d love to have in our backyard, Design Milk. Available at: https://design-milk.com/10-modern-treehouses-wed-love-to-have-in-our-own-backyard/ (Accessed: 07 November 2023).
Zaha Hadid’s architecture, buildings, and structures (no date) Architectural Digest. Available at: https://www.architecturaldigest.com/zaha-hadid-architecture-buildings (Accessed: 30 October 2023).
Buxton, P. (no date) Hindsight: Ken Yeang on blazing a trail for ecological design, RIBAJ. Available at: https://www.ribaj.com/culture/hindsight-ken-yeang-hamzah-yeang-climate-action-ecological-design (Accessed: 29 October 2023).
About Frank Lloyd Wright (2023) Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation. Available at: https://franklloydwright.org/frank-lloyd-wright/ (Accessed: 27 October 2023).
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