National college of Arts Rawalpindi campus

Department of Architecture
Class: 3rd.Year Architecture, 6th Semester (Aug2024–Dec2024)

PROJECT# 3 Mini Thesis

Course Title: ARCH DESIGN-IV Course ID: ARCH-

3201
Credit Hours: 08 Total Marks: 60%
Project Duration: 08 Weeks
Course Instructors:
Ar. Muhammad Shahzad Haider, Ar.Mussawar iqbal sheikh, Ar. Mirza Inayat Ali, Ar. Waheeda Akhter, Ar. Rabia Atif

A. Project Title: Culture and Media Hub

B. Introduction

The Culture and Media Hub is envisioned as a dynamic center that bridges
the worlds of culture, media, and community engagement. As technology
and art increasingly intersect, the need for dedicated spaces that foster
creativity and collaboration becomes essential. This hub will serve as a
multifunctional facility designed to accommodate various activities,
including live performances, recording sessions, media production, and
educational programs.

In this project, architectural design will play a crucial role in shaping the
user experience. By exploring diverse architectural styles—such as
Architecture and the Senses, Critical Regionalism, Climatic Response
Architecture, Minimalism, Geometry in Architecture, Postmodernism, and
Brutalism—we aim to create a space that is not only functional but also
inspiring and engaging. Each style offers unique perspectives and
methodologies that can inform our design approach, encouraging a deeper
understanding of how architecture influences human experience.

The Culture and Media Hub will prioritize community involvement and
cultural exchange, making it a vital part of the local landscape. Through
 thoughtful design and strategic programming, this hub aims to support local
artists and media professionals while providing a welcoming environment
for all. As we embark on this journey, we will synthesize our findings from
various architectural concepts to develop a cohesive and innovative design
that resonates with its users `

Part -1

You will be exploring the following architectural languages:

I. Architecture and the senses

II. Critical regionalism
III. Climate-responsive architecture
IV. Less is more
V. Geometry and architecture
VI. Postmodernism
VII. Brutalism.

You will be divided into seven groups, with each group assigned one of the topics
listed above. Your task is to conduct thorough research on your assigned topic,
taking into consideration the following guidelines:

Methodology

➢ In-Depth Study

o Conduct detailed research on each architectural style. Utilize

academic resources, architectural journals, and case studies to gather
insights and examples.

➢ Conceptual Integration

o Reflect on your own design philosophy and aesthetics. Identify how

the studied styles can inform and enrich your unique concept for the
Culture and Media Hub. Consider elements such as spatial
organization, materials, and user experience.

➢ Design Development

o Begin sketching initial design ideas that merge your insights from
these architectural styles with your personal vision. Focus on creating
 spaces that foster creativity, collaboration, and community
engagement.

➢ Lecturer Reviews

o After completing your studies, engage in discussions with your

lecturers. Present your findings and receive feedback on how these
architectural themes can be synthesized into your design concept.

• Understanding of the Topic: Provide a comprehensive overview of the

topic and its significance within the field of architecture.
• Origin: Explore the historical roots and key figures associated with the
architectural language.
• Architectural Translation: Analyze how the concepts are interpreted and
expressed in architectural design.
• Historical Background: Examine the evolution of the topic over time,
highlighting major developments and shifts in perspective.
• Design Elements: Identify and discuss key design elements and principles
associated with the topic.
• Planning Dynamics: Investigate how planning strategies relate to the topic
and influence architectural outcomes.
• Context of Environment: Consider the environmental factors that impact
the architectural language, including cultural, social, and climatic influences.
• Conceptual Diagrams: Create diagrams that visually represent the core
concepts and relationships within the topic.

➢ Precedents

• At Least Three Examples: Identify at least three significant architectural

precedents that embody your topic.
• Pros and Cons: Analyze the strengths and weaknesses of each example,
considering factors such as functionality, aesthetic appeal, and cultural
impact.

➢ Conclusions

• Current Scenario: Summarize the contemporary relevance of your topic in

today’s architectural discourse.
• Updated Architectural Translations: Discuss recent developments and
interpretations within the architectural community, noting any emerging
trends or innovative approaches.
Research Directions for the Culture and Media Hub Design
Architectural Styles and Thematic Focus

As part of your exploration for the design of the Culture and Media Hub, it is
essential to study various architectural styles and concepts. Each style offers
unique insights that can enrich your design approach. The following themes are
recommended for a deeper investigation:

1. Architecture and the Senses

o Explore how architecture can engage all five senses (sight, sound,
touch, smell, taste). Consider how the design can enhance auditory
experiences, such as acoustics in performance spaces and the sensory
atmosphere in communal areas.
2. Critical Regionalism
o Study how this approach emphasizes local context, culture, and
materials. Analyze how to integrate the hub into its geographical and
cultural setting, using local building traditions and sustainable
materials.
3. Climatic Response Architecture
o Investigate design strategies that respond to local climate conditions.
Focus on passive heating and cooling techniques, natural ventilation,
and how these strategies can enhance the comfort and sustainability of
the hub.
4. Less is More
o Examine the minimalist philosophy in architecture. Reflect on how
simplicity and clarity in design can enhance functionality, aesthetics,
and user experience within the hub.
5. Geometry and Architecture
o Delve into the use of geometry in architectural design. Consider how
geometric forms can influence spatial organization, structural
expression, and overall aesthetics in your hub design.
6. Postmodernism
o Investigate the principles of postmodern architecture, including
eclecticism, irony, and historical reference. Explore how these
elements can be incorporated to create a vibrant, engaging, and
contextually rich design.
 7. Brutalism Architecture
o Analyze the characteristics of brutalism, such as raw materials, bold
forms, and functional design. Consider how this style can contribute
to a sense of authenticity and permanence in your hub.

C. Project Objectives:

• To have through research and literature study on architectural styles.

• To create a dynamic space that integrates culture and media with respect to
architectural styles.
• To support local artists and media professionals.
• To enhance community involvement and cultural exchange.
• To develop initiatives with educational opportunities

D. Scope of Work:

Research and Analysis

• Architectural Styles Exploration: Conduct an in-depth study of selected

architectural themes (e.g., Architecture and the Senses, Critical Regionalism,
etc.) to understand their principles and applications.
• Program analysis: Read carefully complete program and sketch for
relationship diagrams, internal and external zoning.
• Area analysis: Read carefully complete program and sketch every area of
required program with reference to the case studies and TSS.
• Site Analysis: Evaluate the selected site for the hub, considering factors
such as climate, topography, surrounding context, and community needs.
• User Needs Assessment: Gather input from potential users, local artists, and
community members to identify specific needs and preferences.

Concept Development

• Design Concept Formulation: Synthesize research findings into a coherent

design concept that reflects the integration of various architectural styles and
addresses user needs.
• Space Planning: Develop a functional layout that efficiently organizes
different spaces (performance areas, studios, classrooms, etc.) while
promoting collaboration and interaction.
Design Execution
With reference to the previous analysis and studies develop master plan and detail
design.

• Master Plan:
o User analysis
o Schematic studies
o Zoning
o Parking
o Circulation
o Foot prints of all building types
o Fire exits
o Outdoor activities
o soft and hard landscape design
o (Master plan includes block plans of all building types as per
anthropometrics)
• Architectural Design: Create detailed architectural drawings and
specifications for the Culture and Media Hub, including plans, elevations,
and sections.
• Interior Design: Design interior spaces to enhance acoustics, aesthetics, and
user experience, including finishes, furniture, and lighting.

Community Engagement

• Workshops and Consultations: Organize community workshops to gather

feedback on design proposals and involve local stakeholders in the planning
process.
• Educational Programs: Develop initiatives and partnerships with local
schools, universities, and organizations to provide educational opportunities
related to culture and media.
 E. Program:

1. Performance Spaces
o Main Auditorium: A versatile space for concerts, theater, and events. Equipped
with advanced acoustics and seating for up to 500 people.
o Black Box Theater: A flexible performance area for experimental works,
workshops, and smaller events.
o Amphitheater: A space for outdoor events.
2. Recording Studios
o Professional Studios: Soundproofed rooms for recording, mixing, and production.
Equipped with state-of-the-art technology.
o Rehearsal Spaces: Smaller rooms available for individual musicians and bands to
practice.
3. Media Production Facilities (outdoor and indoor sets )
o Video Editing Suites: Rooms with high-end editing software and hardware for
film and media production.
o Podcasting Studio: A dedicated space for recording podcasts with professional
sound equipment.
4. Educational Areas
o Classrooms and Workshops: Spaces for culture and media education, including
sound design, music theory, and media production courses.
o Community Engagement Room: A space for workshops and events that involve
the local community, fostering skill development and collaboration.
5. Public Spaces
o Gallery and Exhibition Area: A space for showcasing art, media projects, and
installations related to culture, music and media.
o Café and Lounge: A social space for artists and visitors to connect, featuring local
food and beverage offerings.
6. Akin facilities

o Parking (100 Cars, 2 buses, 5 coasters, 30 Bikes)

o Admin block
o Security rooms
o First aid rooms
o Stalls
o Reception

Design Considerations

• Acoustic Design: Ensuring that spaces are acoustically optimized for both performance
and recording.
• Flexibility: Spaces that can be adapted for various uses and events.
 • Accessibility: Ensuring that the hub is accessible to all members of the community.

Conclusion

The Culture and Media Hub is more than just a building; it is a catalyst for creativity and
cultural exchange. By integrating culture and media within a community-focused design, this
hub will inspire future generations of artists and media professionals.

Suggested Reading and Resources

• "The Architecture of Music: Designing Spaces for Sound" by Michael McMahon

• "Creative Spaces: The Role of Architecture in Music" by Sarah Lopez
• Local music and media organizations for collaboration opportunities

Discussion Questions

1. How can architecture influence the creative process in culture and media?
2. What role does community engagement play in the design of cultural spaces?
3. How can sustainability be integrated into the design of performance and production
spaces?

1. Foster Creativity: Provide a stimulating environment that encourages artistic exploration

and innovation in culture and media.
2. Support Local Artists: Offer resources, facilities, and opportunities for local musicians
and media professionals to develop their skills and showcase their work.
3. Enhance Community Engagement: Create spaces and programs that invite community
participation, fostering connections between artists and the public.
4. Promote Education and Skill Development: Offer educational workshops, classes, and
mentorship programs in culture and media, supporting lifelong learning.
5. Encourage Collaboration: Facilitate partnerships and collaborations between artists,
media professionals, and educational institutions to inspire new projects and initiatives.
6. Integrate Sustainability: Design the hub with sustainable practices in mind, minimizing
environmental impact and promoting awareness of eco-friendly solutions.
7. Create a Cultural Destination: Establish the hub as a vibrant cultural center that attracts
visitors and enhances the local arts scene.
8. Adapt to Technological Advances: Incorporate the latest technology in culture and
media production to prepare users for current industry standards.
 Time line & Division of Marks: music hub
PHASE DATE PHASES MARKS

A. Preliminary design 10th Oct 2024 Introduction to the project

Week-1 14th & 15th Oct 2024 Working on group presentation

17th Oct 2024 Group presentation: 20

Submittals(A) For Style of architecture
• Literature review
• Precedents
• Current depiction

B. Preliminary design 21st Oct 2024 Site Visit

Week-2
22nd Oct 2024 Introduction to the program ,Class
Discussion, Lecture report writing

24th Oct 2024 Class Discussion( for program)

Literature review
Precedent-studies
Site Analysis
Anthropometrics of Program
User analysis

C. Preliminary design 28th Oct 2024 Jury/Sheet Display: 20

Week-3 Draft Report (500 word)
Submittals(B) Literature review
Precedent-studies
Site Analysis
Anthropometrics of Program
User analysis Zoning

29th Oct 2024 Design development

Zoning
Relationship diagrams
Schematic studies
20
Submittals(C) 31st Oct 2024 Jury/Sheet Display:
Design development
Zoning
Relationship diagrams
Schematic studies
D. Preliminary design 4th Nov 2024 Class Discussion:
Week-4 Master plan
Zoning
Parking
Foot prints of all building types
Circulation
Calculations of occupant
 User analysis
No. of fire exits, sizes of fire exits
Outdoor activities
soft and hard landscape design

5th Nov 2024 Class Discussion:

Master plan

Submittals (D) 7th Nov 2024 Jury/Sheet Display

Program analysis(submittal B) 20

Design development(submittal C)
Master plan (submittal D)
D. Preliminary design 11th, 12th, 14th Class Discussion:
Week-5 & 6 Nov 2024 Detail Plans, internal layouts,
development, Elevation
and sections

submittals(E) 18th Nov 2024 MID JURY/Sheet Display: 50

Style of architecture (submittal A)
Program analysis(submittal B)
Design development(submittal C)
Master plan (submittal D)
Detail design (Detail Plans, internal
layouts, development, Elevation )
and sections (submittal E)
th st
19 , 21 Nov 2024 Class Discussion:
Detail Plans, internal layouts,
development, Form Development
E. Week-7 25th , 26TH Nov 2024 Class Discussion:

submittals(F) 28th Nov 2024 PRE- FINAL JURY/Sheet Display

Style of architecture (submittal A) 70
Program analysis (submittal B)
Design development (submittal C)
Master plan (submittal D)
Detail design (submittal E)
3d-views(form development)
(submittal F)

F. Week-8 5th Dec 2024 FINAL JURY 100

submittals(G)
Style of architecture (submittal A)
Program analysis (submittal B)
Design development (submittal C)
Master plan (submittal D)
Detail design (submittal E)
3d-views(form development)
(submittal F)
Final Report(500 words), physical
model submittals(G)
 Annexure:
1. Preliminary Design Submittals-A:
Choose a style of architecture from given list
Literature review
Style information
Architects working with selected style
Precedent-studies
Current depiction of style

2. Preliminary Design Submittals-B

Report (500 words)
Literature review
Precedent-studies
Site Analysis
Anthropometrics of Program
User analysis Zoning

3. Preliminary Design Submittals-C

Design development
• Zoning
• Relationship diagrams
• Schematic studies

4. Preliminary Design Submittals-D

Master plan
• Zoning
• Parking
• Foot prints of all building types
• Circulation
• Calculations of occupant
• User analysis
• No. of fire exits, sizes of fire exits
• Outdoor activities
• soft and hard landscape design
• (Master plan includes block plans of all building types as per anthropometrics)
• Schematic studies on Sketch-Up

Note:
Drawings to be CAD generated must be with appropriate scale.
Scale of the drawings to be determined by the student must be mentioned at all sheets
with all level plans.
5. Preliminary Design Submittals-E
Detail design

All level plans with internal layouts

Elevation x2
Sections x2
Sectional Details x5 (sections to show working details)

Note: Drawings to be CAD generated inappropriate scale.

Scale of the drawings to be determined by the students.
Scale of the drawings to be determined by the student must be mentioned at all sheets
with all level plans.
Proper formatting of sheets must be done to ensure clear and good presentation including
Project title, student’s name, scale, ARCHITECTURAL lettering and North sign etc.

6. Preliminary Design Submittals-F

Detail design

All level plans with internal layouts

Elevation x2
Sections x2
3D Views x 2
Detailed Schematics

7. Final Design Submittals-G

Submittal (A- F) includes
Final Report (500 Words)
Finished Model showing entire site, adjoining roads with buildings and landscaping
compete in all respects.

Note:
Building / Site sections illustrate key aspects and major spatial or programmatic elements.
Floor plans to show the interior spatial arrangements and program. Large but to scale drawing
that illustrates innovative details or integrated aspects of design.
Three dimensional representations explaining the design, perspectives and montages that display
the character of the project.
Elevations are to demonstrating quality such as material, texture, and colour.
Presentation will be incorporated with
• Project statement and Architectural Objectives,
• Architecture style
o Literature review
 o Precedents studies/analysis/ conclusion
• Program/ Design
o Literature review/Info graphics
o Project statement and Architectural objectives
o Case studies
• Design development process
o Program analysis
▪ Zoning
▪ Relationship diagrams
▪ Schematics
o Area analysis
o Concept sketches

• Site analysis (edwardt.whitebook)

• Site section x2
• Complete Master plan /Detail Plan
• All level plans
• Section x2
• Working details section x5
• Elevation x2
• 3DViews x2
• Blow-ups x2
• Salient Features Details

• Finished Model showing entire site, adjoining roads with buildings and landscaping
compete in all respects.

• ALL PLANS SHOULD BE PRESENTED AT SAME SCALE APPROPRIATE

FOR THE DESIGN SOLUTION AND INCLUDE GRAPHIC SCALE FOR
REFERENCE.
• USE SAME FONT FOR EVERY SHEET
o HEADING—ALL HEADING MUST HAVE SAME SIZE
o SUB-HEADING-- ALL SUB- HEADING MUST HAVE SAME SIZE
o PARAGRAPH -- ALL PARAGRAPHS MUST HAVE SAME SIZE
• Proper formatting of sheets must be done to ensure clear and good presentation.
• Sheets size 90”X40”/90”x36” Landscape/portrait).
• Total No of Sheets THREE (03)
• Project title, student’s name, scale, lettering, North sign etc.

NOTE: Late submissions will not be accepted.