JAELLE LIU
COMMUNITY SERVICE INITIATIVE
UCM60102U
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In School of Architecture, Building and Design, CSI will continue the traditional teaching and learning method in Architectures, that is learning by integrating theories with design practice. Students are required to incorporate the theory they have learned at school into real life environment and problems. The intention is to reveal the students to the real community and work together as a team for architectural, culture and environmental enhancing activities in the communities of different social economic status and social groups.
PROJECT DETAILS
The community-based services in CSI module for SABD are to expose students to the real community living in the real life situation. The students are to work together as a team for architectural, culture and environmental enhancing activities in the communities of different socio-economic status and social groups.
After close observation of our intended site, it has been noted that; the site while being fairly clean and well maintained, consisted of an increasing issue of littering that needs to be dealt with. Plastic bags, empty cans and leaflets were left lying about the grounds; reflecting the clear absence of rubbish bins on site, other than one main refuse chamber in front of Blk 36. The group did however recognised that efforts to better the situation has been carried out by local residents - trash were separated into recyclables and left under the main staircase for collecting.
Ideas were presented to ZLG Architects in order to receive feedback regarding their opinions. This led to the team directing the path towards a recycling bin concept rather than simply having a rubbish bin. Youth engagement was brought in, with the purpose to educate them on the importance of recycling.
Precedent studies were explored as we explored this new scheme. Eventually we concluded on utilising recycled materials as part of design of the bins. The recycling bin intended for plastic bottles would incorporate actual plastic bottles as its exterior skin; similarly for the bins intended for paper and metal cans - this not only allows for a more dynamic design, it also serves a stronger message.
The final bin structures were constructed using L-channels, plastic mesh and various connection components, while the exterior skins had plastic bottles, tins and egg crates attached on as the facade system. Graphic print outs were prepared to be placed on site; visually pulling in the attention of the residents and passerby, encouraging them to actively utilise the bins.
It is definitely a unique and rewarding experience, knowing that a project you're taking part in would be able to benefit another individual, further more a community. Through listening to the thoughts of the residents, we were able to generate a finished product that caters to their needs. The residents expressed that if there were bins around, they would be far more willing to carry out separating their recyclable wastes. As this is my first community based project, having gone through this journey showed a distinct difference in merely designing in the field of architecture. Being able to see the project through from design to completion, and eventually knowing that another person out there is benefitting from your project is the most gratifying outcome we can ask for.