Shows
Talk ArchitectureA Recap on Sensory-driven Architecture Principles for Disabled Persons SpecificallySend us a textThe seven principles of sensory-driven architecture, which focus on engaging human senses to create meaningful and immersive built environments, are often derived from the broader concepts of sensory design. 1. Sight (Visual Engagement)2. Sound (Acoustic Harmony) 3. Touch (Tactile Experience)4. Smell (Olfactory Design)5. Temperature (Thermal Comfort)6. Movement (Kinesthetic Awareness)7. Emotional Resonance (Human-Centered Experience)This episode, Naziaty Mohd Yaacob, discussed the above principles with disabled persons needs in mind.© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Image by Naziaty Moh...
2025-09-1917 min
Talk ArchitectureThe Use of Sensory-driven Architecture Principles to Achieve Inclusive & Therapeutic Spaces [Part 1]Send us a textA new season on Sensory-driven Architecture principles and ideas.The first part of this proposition of using sensory-driven architecture principles to achieve inclusive and therapeutic spaces as explained by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob, started on a research to combine 'architecture', 'disability' and 'phenomenology'. Definitions and approach to how we could go about as architects go above and beyond accessibility and universal design is articulated in Part 1.Reference to Juhani Pallasmaa's The Eyes of the Skin and Kevin Mark Low's small projects plus ideas on Universal Design principles.© 2025 Talk A...
2025-09-1529 min
Talk ArchitectureThe MAW Review: A Commentary on the Malaysian Architecture DialogueSend us a textThe Malaysian Architecture Week is still on-going and Naziaty Mohd Yaacob managed to catch up with what's happening by coming for the Borak Borak 04 session and listening to the speakers and the conversations after left me thinking that a small opening was created by the architecture fraternity to be more open and more critical on architecture practice and education. This is my review on the event and other thoughts.© 2025 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Image of a person interested with Ar Dexter Koh's exhibition work. (Taken by Naziaty)S...
2025-06-2430 min
Talk ArchitectureSpecial Feature: The Architect Identity - when did it start and how long will it last?Send us a textSpecial Feature: A personal account on what is the architect's identity and what happens when one has it and at what age - 20,25,30,35 or 40?If you are not practicing architecture, can you still identify as an architect?This episode was created in series 12 and was part of a special feature for paid subscribers but now it's free for everyone.©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit ©️ Design Thesis Section by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob, 1990Support the showDo subscribe for premium content and special...
2024-07-1327 min
Talk ArchitectureDesign problem and design process in architecture studio curriculum - Part 3Send us a textA discussion on the diagram posed earlier in the first episode of Talk Architecture and discussed in this blog: Life is a design thesis. However, the 'design problem' is explained in more detail by referring to the diagram (shown in thumbnail) which is a flow chart of the design processes in 4 phases (for the design thesis) but much of the components and stages can be applied to any architecture program in 1-5 years.© 2023 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd YaacobThe artwork in the podcast is the diagram by Naziaty Mohd Y...
2023-12-1922 min
Talk ArchitectureWhat architecture school did not teach you? [Part 1]Send us a textDiscussing one important skill that architecture school did not teach you.ASKING THE RIGHT QUESTIONThis skill relates to other sub skills such as thinking strategically and tactically at the same time, seeing bigger picture and details together which is necessary in getting a good grounding before working and ease of becoming an effective project architect.This is also imperative in the 21st century to have that entrepreneurial skill. Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit : Desk Crit Kg Kerinci TVET project by Amirul, as...
2023-07-1229 min
Talk ArchitectureThe Purpose of Life - Why Architecture?Send us a textWhy did you take 'architecture'? Because something in you, intuitively resonated with that idea of learning architecture. Whether you end up being a practicing and professional architect or an artist or filmmaker, you once learned architecture and that journey had you asking at least subconsciously the “purpose of your life” and here you are - listening and still wanting to know more about architecture by doing it.Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit Self-Portrait "Still in Love with Architecture", Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob, 2023.Support the showDo s...
2023-07-0741 min
Talk ArchitectureIs the Architecture Culture in an Office, a Club? - Part 1Send us a textThis is the 2nd Episode of Season 13, focused on "Architects and Mental Health". Using their own experience after graduating from Part 2, Naziaty reflected on the incident when they started work at a company in Malaysia, where they felt like a "failure", as they did not fit in the office culture. On observation, it was a great learning encounter, where in the bigger picture of understanding stress and burnout issues that architects may be facing in architecture practice, this episode sets up further discussion on this matter on the 'architecture culture' in architecture practice...
2023-06-1433 min
Talk ArchitectureSeason 13 - Premiere Episode - Architects and Mental Health: Is Architecture a Profession of Stress?Send us a textStarting off the new season - Season 13 - the article "Profession of Architecture - A profession of stress?" is reviewed and commented upon by the host, Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. The article contained information that is commonly accepted on what architects do, but has not been critical enough in examining what is "architecture culture". However, this is the first episode of this season, which is a journey of discovering issues on "architects and mental health" covering both architecture practice and education. We look forward to more discussions and a thorough examination of this topic i...
2023-06-1238 min
Talk ArchitectureWhat is the Direction of Malaysian Schools of Architecture? (Part 1)Send us a textPost Script - this is a summary of the discussion and debate based on the latest interview with Cheah Kok Ming and others such as Lillian and Lok Wooi plus the clubhouse discussion in the last weeks on “broad-based versus specialized education” and “culture of critique”.This opinion piece by Naziaty, the host of this podcast, suggests the direction of Malaysian schools of architecture, to really question our aims, goals, and intention when it comes to the interest of architecture graduates. ©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit ©️ group photo in co...
2023-04-1923 min
Talk ArchitectureEid Mubarak Interview with Assoc. Prof. Ar. Cheah Kok Ming (NUS)Send us a textEid Mubarak Special Podcast Episode:An interview with Cheah Kok Ming, with the host, Naziaty, focusing on "learning in the studios". "I tend to see design education in a larger way that's slightly beyond defining, giving students an unknown problem...what's important is that when you give them a known problem it is always a known solution. And then some students will short-circuit the whole process of learning by just adopting the known solution" (Cheah Kok Ming)If NUS architecture students' learning is to set them up for...
2023-04-1957 min
Talk ArchitectureTeaser - Interview with Cheah Kok Ming (NUS)Send us a textSoon on this podcast : an interview with Cheah Kok Ming, discussing with the host, Naziaty, on the design thesis and M Arch design studio and how NUS has an approach in architecture education that competes at the international level in terms of getting their graduates to obtain “life skills in learning how to think”. ‘Kok Ming leads a studio at sophomore and MArch level. As a design educator, he believes in designing the problem statement that has little or no precedent solutions. The aim is to get students to understand the issues...
2023-04-1714 min
Talk ArchitectureAn Interview with Ar. Lillian Tay - Part 2Send us a textAn Interview with Ar. Lillian Tay, a well known member of the Malaysian architecture fraternity, Director of Veritas Architects, former PAM President in 2019, with the host of this podcast, Naziaty on architecture practice and the “role of Malaysian Architects Institute (PAM - Malay acronym)”, where it is necessary to create a culture of critical thinking amongst architects.©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit ©️ Veritas Architects photo of Ar. Lillian Tay with others in an architecture event http://www.theveritasdesigngroup.com/Support the showDo subscribe for premium...
2023-03-1943 min
Talk ArchitectureAn Interview with Ar. Lillian Tay - Part 1Send us a textAn Interview with Ar. Lillian Tay, a well known member of the Malaysian architecture fraternity, Director of Veritas Architects, former PAM President in 2019, with the host Naziaty, talking about Malaysian architecture education and “broad based architecture education”, its importance to be considered and how this approach will assist the future of architecture graduates. ©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit ©️ Veritas Architects photo of Ar. Lillian Tay giving crits http://www.theveritasdesigngroup.com/Support the showDo subscribe for premium content and special features which will help to suppo...
2023-03-1932 min
Talk ArchitectureA Fresh Conversation with Gary Yeow: Alternative Methodologies in ArchitectureSend us a textIn an interview, the guest who is Gary Yeow, together with Naziaty, resulted in two podcasters discussing alternative methodologies in architecture. More of a conversation dedicated to the role of the Malaysian Architects Association (Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia - PAM) and how open engagements such as discourse and debate are needed to address all other issues and sentiments surfacing elsewhere in informal events, besides PAM's partiality to professional practice and less debatable topics. Other matters in this episode include how younger architects like Gary, view architecture practice and negotiating life after graduation....
2023-02-2049 min
Talk Architecture🔒 Special feature: the difference between design thesis and thesis in generalSubscriber-only episodeSend us a textSpecial feature:Never before discussed insights on what is happening to architecture education right now. First insight Why do academics confuse design thesis and thesis in general? This is the explanation that you need! A precise and clear understanding that you need to know! ©️Talk Architecture 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo credit - ©️ Life is a Design Thesis 2023, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob, showing the image header. Graphite ProGRAPHITE is a platform for creatives and trailblazers aiming to elevate t...
2023-02-0725 min
Talk ArchitectureIn-depth: what I talk about when I talk about design thesis - Part 2Send us a textThe 2nd Part episode starts with listening to the collective voice calling for the design thesis as a crucial year, the beginning part of an architect's journey into their career, to be led by a design practitioner and not the academic. The project could fuel the passion of the budding architect to explore their interest and life-long learning. This episode will explain the 3 fallacies (issues) that academicians do regarding the design thesis course. 1) Making the design thesis like a 'thesis', as arguably there is a difference between 'design problems' as...
2023-02-0629 min
Talk ArchitectureIn-depth: What I talk about when I talk about ‘design thesis’ - Part 1Send us a textA two-parter starting with this episode - why the design practitioner needs to be the leader in the design thesis studio unit for the final year of the graduating architect. And not the full-time academic. A crucial understanding of how to design, manage and provide for the best start to a soon-to-be graduating student of architecture journey into the world of practice where the student seeks a topic and a supervisor from the architecture practice industry. Why not a full-time academic? Watch out for the next part, but listen to this o...
2023-02-0641 min
Talk ArchitectureThe Conversation with Ar. Lok Kuang Wooi on Architecture EducationSend us a textThe Conversation you are waiting for is finally here, an interview with Ar. Lok Kuang Wooi on Architecture Education focusing on the Design Thesis process with Naziaty Mohd Yaacob, Ph.D..Lok Wooi believes that Malaysian universities "don't really have that paradigm shift yet" and the main view we agreed on after deliberating and arguing on the Clubhouse audio platform and elsewhere, is how the design thesis in Malaysian universities could be better designed and implemented as an architecture course so that the students "really find a topic that they want...
2023-02-0344 min
Talk ArchitectureEducation core value translated into projects -Part 1Send us a textFocusing Core Value 3, proposed by the Education Minister on the poverty of children from B40 (The bottom 40% of the population) where it is to do with malnutrition, means or device or technology and spaces of learning, were dealt with in the design thesis projects from the 2019-2020 batch (Kg Kerinchi) and 2020-21, namely by Yasmin Nazihah and Chiang Her (both projects published at designthesis.wordpress.com)©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): "Talk Architecture" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob; Photo credit ©️ Universiti Malaya, Author: Yasmin Nazihah Hazizuldeen : The section shows from l...
2022-12-1919 min
Talk ArchitectureTeaching politics in architecture schoolSend us a textIn light of the coming general election, we know that a degree in philosophy is not available in Malaysian universities. How do university students learn about democracy and politics? Referring to the teaching of politics in universities, I would like to bring attention to utilizing practitioners including people from all background to teach and give their opinions in the architectural students learning process. This is about masterplanning and building projects in schools of architecture that allow the architectural student to role play as a developer and urban planner, for example.
2022-11-1525 minTalk ArchitectureWhat processes in architecture that need change?Send us a textWould you study in a school that focuses on drafting and construction or art, architecture and history with more thought-provoking work? Can we have both? We tried to do that when I was teaching in the final year (design thesis) and it is interesting that this issue was raised by others in a Facebook group full of architects. ©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): "Talk Architecture" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob; Bus Stop drawing by Kamelia JambariSupport the showDo subscribe for premium content and spec...
2022-11-1526 minTalk ArchitectureSense of drawing - Hand drawn, Autocad, Archicad, Revit, BIM?Send us a textWhat’s the difference between learning to draw by hand and using software or digital architecture tools? What’s the best software tool? Someone asked the question why architecture companies prefer their employees to draw in Autocad as they felt that it’s easier to draw in Archicad and Revit. This led to many conversations and led me to believe that we lost the ability to design in 2D as we had when we hand-drawn. We lost the ability to design as much as could. ©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artw...
2022-11-1426 minTalk ArchitectureThe client’s misunderstanding of the word ‘design’Send us a textAre clients unclear about the word ‘design’ especially in their role as the financier of the residential design project? Are the clients easily influenced by media such as HGTV and Pinterest images and videos on design styles and question the architect’s decision on ‘design’? Does the architect accept this situation and just give the client what they want? ©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): "Talk Architecture" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob; Bus Stop drawing by Kamelia JambariSupport the showDo subscribe for premium content and special fe...
2022-11-1315 minTalk ArchitectureCommentary: How can a new architectural graduate design hideously?Send us a textThe title of this podcast episode was posted by an architect (employer) in a Facebook Group (Private) where most of the members are architects. I have permission to quote from them and expand on this issue of the architectural graduate that could not draw architecture in an architectural practice and suggests that this issue is not uncommon, as verified by a number of employers (commenters on Facebook). My suggestion is that the teaching was not done or not done properly in architecture schools, in a worldwide phenomenon, due to many factors, b...
2022-11-0420 minTalk ArchitectureEthics for Architects - Environmental HypocrisySend us a textReading and commentary on a section by Thomas Fischer’s (2010) Ethics for Architects- page 132, “Environmental Hypocrisy” on an academic who talks about sustainability but does not practice sustainability, hence a hypocrite. ©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): "Talk Architecture" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob; Bus Stop drawing by Kamelia JambariSupport the showDo subscribe for premium content and special features which will help to support and sustain Talk Architecture podcast on a more in-depth explanation on design thesis and processes. These special commentaries and ‘how to’ explanat...
2022-10-1924 minTalk ArchitectureArchitecture and Reality - Drawings make it real!Send us a textFocusing on architecture education and why it is important that the process of imagining and visioning a design and putting it out as a drawing, or model with a strong description and narrative (essential keywords) is the key to starting being an architect. In a previous episode, we touched upon 'architecture and reality' and what is real. In this episode, we argue that 'drawings are reality' as it is depicted from the mind. Drawings make it real, even if it is not yet built. As long as it is in the mind it...
2022-10-1914 minTalk ArchitectureEthics for Architects- Crediting CoworkersSend us a textReading and commentary on a section by Thomas Fischer’s (2010) Ethics for Architects- page 116, “Crediting Coworkers” on the issue of the principal or director of the company not acknowledging the architect responsible for doing the job as "the means to an end", rather than "the ends themselves" as per Immanuel Kant. ©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): "Talk Architecture" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob; Bus Stop drawing by Kamelia JambariSupport the showDo subscribe for premium content and special features which will help to support and sustai...
2022-10-1918 minTalk ArchitectureEthics for Architects - Accommodating DisabilitiesSend us a textReading and commentary on a section by Thomas Fischer’s (2010) Ethics for Architects- page 118, “Accommodating Disabilities” on the dilemma of hiring a person with disabilities to be their employee in an architecture company. ©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): "Talk Architecture" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob; Bus Stop drawing by Kamelia JambariSupport the showDo subscribe for premium content and special features which will help to support and sustain Talk Architecture podcast on a more in-depth explanation on design thesis and processes. These special commentaries and ‘how t...
2022-10-1920 min
Talk ArchitectureCommentary: Universiti Malaya campus design thesis (July - August 2020 special semester)Send us a textIn the conversation that Kevin Mark Low and I had with the 5 architecture graduates, Gan (2021) gave his design thesis views at the end. He said: "So the problem is when the world didn't give chances for us, they didn't prepare the environment, we go and seek it." He also talked about why the Universiti Malaya campus design is fascinating as all the projects relate to each. Unfortunately, the original tutors could not work with the students after establishing the alternative master plan ended by the 7th week, and another set of tutors was...
2022-09-1321 min
Talk ArchitectureStarting Conversations - Kevin Mark Low with 5 Architecture Graduates [Part 2]Send us a textThe Continuation of Sharing Conversations [Part 2]: with Kevin Mark Low and Naziaty, host of this podcast, plus 5 former students who are now graduate architects with 2-6 years of experience in practice: Kwan Seng (2017), Ameelia Rokhaza'ain (2018), Joo Yin (2019), Raymond Bu (2020), Gan (2021) - M Arch graduating years in the bracket. Focusing on points of view of the:1. The critical architect2. Problems in practice and other issues©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): Group photo after Final Crit in 2019 with JY’s batch from U2 design thesis taken by a s...
2022-09-0249 min
Talk ArchitectureCommentary: Leaders are critical thinkersSend us a textA commentary on the topics of the "culture of reading that will result in more critical thinkers that can differentiate truth from lies" and "bringing awareness on social media", was addressed, by Kevin Mark Low, for the first part of three episodes which has to do with "influencers and leaders". To create the "culture of reading", I assume that an individual wants to have a book to be their companion, at all times, every day, whereby having read the book, be it fiction or nonfiction, and delving i...
2022-08-1919 minTalk ArchitectureCommentary - What is half an architect?Send us a textA commentary on the last 3 podcast episodes conversation with Kevin Mark Low.What is half an architect? Solely focusing on the idea that schools of architecture are graduating conceptual designers and not architects or half an architect, the podcast host, Naziaty Mohd Yaacob, illustrates an example by giving a detailed account of what went wrong in schools of architecture nowadays. ©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): "Talk Architecture" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob; Bus Stop drawing by Kamelia JambariSupport the show
2022-07-3120 min
Talk ArchitectureConversation with Kevin Mark Low talking on Leaders in Architecture Education & Practice [Part 2b]Send us a textThe concluding part (Part 2b) of a conversation with Kevin Mark Low talking on Leaders in Architecture Education & Practice, with Naziaty Mohd Yaacob, Talk Architecture podcast host.Topics include:1. The problem in schools of architecture are teaching students to be a successful designer (not 'architect' - there is a difference!) "You cannot be half an architect" (quote)2. How to become a more complete thinker, better manager, contractor, and human being.©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): Kevin Mark Low.Support the showD...
2022-07-2613 min
Talk ArchitectureConversation with Kevin Mark Low talking on Leaders in Architecture Education & Practice - [Part 2a]Send us a textKeep on listening. The second part (Part 2a) of a conversation with Kevin Mark Low talking on Leaders in Architecture Education & Practice, with Naziaty Mohd Yaacob, Talk Architecture podcast host.Topics include:1. Architecture education is set by the "professional employability" factor - architects graduate to prove marketable to developers who create jobs for architects. 2. What kind of architect do you choose to be (with some examples)?©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): "Pre Thesis 2019 site visit PJ old town" (photo taken by a student).Su...
2022-07-2615 min
Talk ArchitectureConversation with Kevin Mark Low on Leaders in Architecture Education & Practice [Part 1]Send us a textListen in. The first part of a conversation with Kevin Mark Low talking on Leaders in Architecture Education & Practice, with Naziaty Mohd Yaacob, Talk Architecture podcast host.Topics include:1. Influencers versus Leaders - how influencers use soundbites, always changing their stand to follow fashion and trends, copy and paste and have no fundamentals. Whereby true leaders are teachers with the same values from beginning to end.2. The biggest problem in our society is there is no culture of reading, the basics to create critical thinkers...
2022-07-2422 min
Talk ArchitectureTeaser - Coming Soon: Conversation with Kevin Mark Low on Leaders in Architecture Education & PracticeSend us a textComing soon is a Special Feature Interview. Kevin Mark Low in conversation with the host of Talk Architecture on several issues such as architecture education, architecture practice, and also a general outlook on what's happening to society in terms of influencers and leaders. In 3 parts series, Kevin will touch on the importance of reading, critical thinkers, the idea of 'professional employability', and how the idea to be a designer (conceptual designer) is the driver of architectural education in Malaysia. The argument is this is not the only thing that ar...
2022-07-2308 min
Talk ArchitectureBoundary Settings in Relationships in Architecture Schools and WorkplacesSend us a textRelating to the topic of mental health in architecture, we refer to schools of architecture and architecture companies and offices as the things that one could look at in terms of personal boundaries and relationships. We found out after observing and speaking to individuals that the boundary settings are not that clear. The complexities arise from a multitude of relationships, especially in the workplace, therefore accountability and negotiation in an open environment are essential where you could talk about things and allow things to be resolved that would make everyone happy. P...
2022-07-2029 minTalk ArchitectureA Community Project Needs to be Authentic and Genuine.Send us a textWhat is the right definition of a community project? Firstly a community project needs to be authentic, genuine, and originally based on the needs of the people around it (in the vicinity), not just anyone in Kuala Lumpur city for example that would like to come to the area. Secondly, if we as designers in the built environment profession are not truthful in our intent, and in our service to the community, by not doing proper research on the needs of the immediate community, then we are just doing what we li...
2022-07-0729 minTalk ArchitectureArchitects need to serve the masses and not only the elitist agendaSend us a textAnother review ( this one is for 15 minutes) on advocating schools of architecture to consciously create design studio programs that deal with society’s problems. Like social housing and community buildings. School of architecture will be doing a better service when creating learning programs that innovate on real problems rather than regurgitating programs that are merely tourist oriented. Architecture schools need to be more independent of the elitist agenda.©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob. Photo (artwork): "Talk Architecture" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob; Bus Stop drawing by Kamelia Support the show
2022-07-0215 minTalk ArchitectureSpecial Review - Architecture’s purpose is to serve the elitesSend us a textSpecial Review - this is a conclusion of the few recent episodes that we had published and emerging theme which could be dealt further in the future. The architectural profession serves the elite group or rich people and not others, the vulnerable and marginalized group. Everyone wants to be in the rich group of course but we are not being inclusive. However what is sad is that architecture schools serve the elites as well and maintaining the status quo is the priority. This is reflected in architectural design studio programs with e...
2022-07-0108 min
Talk ArchitectureInterview with Ee Von & Afaf on Architecture Education - Part 2Send us a textThe concluding part of the conversation featuring two fresh graduates, Ee Von and Afaf, on Architecture Education, starts with discussions on:Part 2 episodeArchitecture education approaches and methods;Other issues that are increasingly being emerging in architecture education and;The future of architecture education.Cheah Ee Von tutor at UCSI in Kuala Lumpur, graduated from Taylor's and the AA School, whereby Siti Nurafaf Ismail is a recent graduate from Universiti Malaya and a recipient of the thirteenth RIBA Norman Foster Travelling Scholarship.© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Y...
2022-07-0147 minTalk ArchitectureBusiness Model, Precedents and Sense of Entitlement - Rights to Access Public SpacesSend us a textThis is an interlude to discuss about the recent tweet by the Malaysian Prime Minister on community projects. If we are not clear on what is a community project and how it will benefit the neighbourhood and community, there will be conflicts and would not serve the purpose on sharing resources using common land and property that is governed by the local authority and Government. It’s all about urban planning and rights to access public spaces as the basic human need of wanting to be healthy in nature. ©️Talk Architecture 2022, Author...
2022-06-2924 min
Talk ArchitectureInterview with Ee Von & Afaf on Public Housing and Spaces Plus Architecture Education - Part 1Send us a textA two-part conversation featuring two fresh graduates, Ee Von and Afaf, on Public Housing and Spaces Plus Architecture Education, starts with discussions on:[Part 1]The recent inaugural Public Housing Liveability Conference under the Rights to the City Programme (16 June 2022) in Taman Tun Dr. Ismail, Kuala Lumpur, and what they feel about the event and the role of ThinkCity;How do they think housing and public spaces are addressed in their own work and elsewhere;How the teaching of housing in architecture schools' design studio curriculum is done and what their feelings a...
2022-06-2739 min
Talk ArchitectureDesign is the Conversation Between Creativity and Context - A DiscussionSend us a text"Design is the Conversation Between Creativity and Context" (Kevin Mark Low, 2014). The quote under Context Specificity from the book published in 2014, called "Small Projects" is used to explain Form + Context, defining further with quotes from Christopher Alexander's "Notes on the Synthesis of Form". Taken from the Architecture Theory lecture here: https://youtu.be/LEZUSAb49VAThis podcast episode concentrates on the first few slides of the lecture, focusing on the quote. © 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob Photo (artwork): The winged seed, blowing in the wind. in Ba...
2022-06-1326 min
Talk ArchitectureArchitecture Practice: Suffering is OptionalSend us a text"Pain is inevitable. Suffering is Optional" (Murakami, 2008).There will be challenges. Such as when a critic gives feedback to the student or the company director comments on the designer's work. There could be 'pain' inflicted, perhaps of the emotional kind. And there could be many of these. However, that is part of the process of learning. How does one take it? Give up on the challenge or keep on going? © 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob Photo (artwork): Cheryl Yew and the critics during interim crit in 2018-19 session by N...
2022-06-1314 min
Talk ArchitectureArchitecture Practice: Survival Brain versus Learning BrainSend us a textThe main protagonists in the architecture design studio are the master (tutor) and apprentice (student). The tutor needs to take time to coach the student so that the latter work on their "learning brain rather than the survival brain". When left unattended the student falls back to bad habits or previous ways of designing that may not be enough for the level that he or she is in and needed to progress further. In order to develop the skills to a greater extent, if not taught in the first year (where it is...
2022-06-0524 min
Talk ArchitectureSketchUp & other 3D Design Software is not the answer to architecture design skills - Part 2Send us a textA sequel to the previous podcast - "SketchUp & other 3D Design Software is not the answer to architecture design skills", focused on why fewer and fewer architecture students end up being an architect and went into more detail about the problem; (1) The poor design of the architecture curriculum affects the students to have lack of confidence in being an architect, and not wanting to pursue architecture; (2) Students not mastered being able to read plans in 3D or lack their imagination, conceptualization, and manual drawing skills because schools place emphasis on digital tools mastery, a...
2022-06-0530 min
Talk ArchitectureDesign Thesis - What happened before Site Context Specificity Unit?Send us a textA brief explanation of what happened before the few years of the architecture studio program leading to the Site Context Specificity units 2016-17, 2018-19 & 2019-20, with sites at Kampung Baru, Bukit Ceylon, Kampung Kerinchi, and Petaling Jaya old town. However, one year earlier 2015-16 batch, I was working with GDP architects, and I learned what was not working. It is all to do with how we design the program and run it. Then for 2016-17, I mentioned 'gentrification'', but it was not about that, as later Kevin referred to 'context specificity' (refer to h...
2022-05-2408 min
Talk ArchitectureArchitecture Practice: Everything is Personal [Part 2]Send us a textThe second part discussion on why everything is personal, in your work and what you do, because professionalism is not a form of detachment from feelings, inspiration, and motivation. Inspired by comments that I got from Facebook on Part 1, I will explain what and how it was done ( my role ) in the architecture design studio programme at the university. The reason why it was important that I take my work personally. © 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob Photo (artwork): Online crit on the UM Campus Masterplan Special Semester August...
2022-05-2029 min
Talk ArchitectureArchitecture Practice: Motivation, Desire and InspirationSend us a textWhat motivates a student of architecture to excel? What gives confidence and inspires a student of architecture to be successful in his / her career? There are elements at play in the architecture design studio programme that will ensure this. Revisiting the master-apprentice (tutor-student) system that has been watered down or less effective in today's practice in universities due to the CGPA grading system, for example.© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd YaacobPhoto (artwork): Online crit on a UM faculty design in Special Semester August 2020 (screenshot by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob)
2022-05-2015 min
Talk ArchitectureArchitecture Practice: Everything is Personal [Part 2]The second part discussion on why everything is personal, in your work and what you do, because professionalism is not a form of detachment from feelings, inspiration, and motivation. Inspired by comments that I got from Facebook on Part 1, I will explain what and how it was done ( my role ) in the architecture design studio programme at the university. The reason why it was important that I take my work personally.© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd YaacobPhoto (artwork): Online crit on the UM Campus Masterplan Special Semester August 2020 (screenshot by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob)
2022-05-2029 minTalk ArchitectureDesign with Empathy - Training architects, designers and property developers on accessibility and universal designSend us a textTo design with empathy, there is a need to train the architect, architectural designers, interior designers, property developers, contractors, and those in the construction industry, on accessibility and universal design. It is essential in this day and age, to build knowledge and skills so that they can help themselves and their companies, by understanding the concept of disability and barriers. Environmental and social goals (ESGs) programs are required for corporate social responsibility but for these companies, it is a value proposition that they can not ignore in the property and construction industry. The...
2022-05-1312 minTalk ArchitectureArchitecture Theory: Expressing your feelings into your workSend us a textAlways start with feelings rather than thoughts, as the expression that comes out of feelings in either writing or drawing your ideas would be closer to what is needed to convey to get the message across to the audience or someone perceiving your work. It is not one or the other but the practice of writing and drawing for an architectural designer can interchangeably do the job, rather than just focusing on one. To write one needs to be reading a lot. © 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd YaacobPhoto (artwork): "Ta...
2022-05-0522 min
Talk ArchitectureAddressing Assumptions of the Feedback Processes in Studio Based LearningSend us a textIn previous podcast episodes, we discussed what happens between the student and tutor in the studio in our interview podcasts, plus the design processes in topics such as Design Process in Architecture Studio Curriculum, for example. We want to explain further the "myth" of the feedback processes in studio-based learning based on an article: David McClean & Neasa Hourigan (2013) Critical Dialogue in Architecture Studio: Peer Interaction and Feedback, Journal for Education in the Built Environment, 8:1, 35-57© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd YaacobArt work in the podcast is the di...
2022-04-2119 minTalk ArchitectureArchitecture & Practice: What is Industrial Design?Send us a textA quick introduction to what is industrial design quoting from the book "Industrial Design (World of Art) by John Heskett". This podcast was recorded in 2020.© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd YaacobPhoto (artwork): "Talk Architecture" by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob; Bus Stop drawing by Kamelia JambariSupport the showDo subscribe for premium content and special features which will help to support and sustain Talk Architecture podcast on a more in-depth explanation on design thesis and processes. These special commentaries and ‘how to’ explanations are valuable insights and k...
2022-04-2030 min
Talk ArchitectureSpirituality and Architecture: Harmony and BalanceSend us a textAnother special feature commemorating the Month of Ramadan, at the midway point, we ask the question of "mosque architecture" in light of "domestic architecture"; has mosque architecture lost the sense of harmony and balance to achieve a sense of place for spirituality, that intimate spaces in domestic or vernacular architecture embody? The idea is to create a sense of intimacy (sensorial experience) to create that harmony and balance in the architecture so that we can find that feeling of peace when in a mosque. Is that possible? I refer to Ismail R. Al-Faruqi's "...
2022-04-1723 min
Talk ArchitectureWhat does Fasting in the Month of Ramadan have to do with Architecture?Send us a textThis is a special edition commemorating the First Day of the Month of Ramadan, where Muslims practice fast from before sunrise to sunset every day, without consuming drinks or food and abstaining from certain activities. But what does this have to do with architecture? My take on this short podcast is to propose that, it has a lot to do with architecture, in particular "phenomenology" and "sensory" aspects of architecture, including design. Do listen to the podcast and Ramadan Mubarak ~ Happy Fasting to those practicing and able to fast!© 2022 Talk Architecture, A...
2022-04-0314 minTalk ArchitectureArchitecture & Practice: The Emergence of the Architecture AnarchistSend us a textThe 'architecture anarchist' is a recent trend amongst the young architectural graduates to comment about architecture but without design practice experience. Is that acceptable? However, this could be due to the "instability" of the architecture profession in terms of not allowing for a diversity of thoughts to emerge in architecture education. Are fewer architecture graduates interested to pursue the traditional practice of architecture? I counted 60% of my batchmates pursued to practice in architecture or be an academic, whereas someone 25 years my junior said her batch, only 30% became architects and academic. This discussion is j...
2022-03-2720 minTalk ArchitectureHow do you integrate theory in studio?Send us a textMy explanation on how we integrate and assess theory in the students assignment and studio work for second year first semester. © 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd YaacobPhoto: Talk Architecture image by Naziaty Mohd YaacobSupport the showDo subscribe for premium content and special features which will help to support and sustain Talk Architecture podcast on a more in-depth explanation on design thesis and processes. These special commentaries and ‘how to’ explanations are valuable insights and knowledge not found elsewhere!
2022-03-2008 min
Talk ArchitectureArchitecture Education & Inclusivity: Is it possible to teach a blind person to be an architect? - Part 2Send us a textAs a social entrepreneur, I would like to pose two ideas of which the first one being, whether it is possible to teach a blind person to be an architect? A different way to approach architecture design, where we may call it "sensory design" or "multi-sensory design" or an extension of "universal design" even. For the second idea, we could be more experimental in our design practice approach, learning from Chris Downey's TedTalk the idea of "awareness of your capacity to organize your environment in a completely different way through sound, t...
2022-03-1928 min
Talk ArchitectureArchitecture & Disability: Sensory Design - Part 2Send us a textThe discussion continues with two other articles and principles learned from "multisensory" design and approach, and "sensory design" apart from David Eagleman, the neuroscientist. I extracted some of the principles and discussed them further to summarize some way forward to design the universal design bus stop Version 3 and other designs. © 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd YaacobPhoto: Universal Design Bus Stop Version 2 by © Universiti Malaya, Author: Naziaty Mohd YaacobSupport the showDo subscribe for premium content and special features which will help to support and sus...
2022-03-0924 min
Talk ArchitectureArchitecture & Disability: Sensory Design - Part 1Send us a textThe discussion refers to the "Now concept" episodes and "Architecture and Disability" with reference to a Ted Talk by David Eagleman on "Can We Create New Senses for Humans" where I find this talk by the neuroscientist amazing exploring ideas on sensory substitution and sensory addition working with blind and deaf persons, such as the "umvelt", a sensory interface vest that uses the body sense of touch. Could we approach a similar way when designing architecture or transit designs such as a bus stop.© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd YaacobP...
2022-03-0614 min
Talk ArchitectureDesign Process: The 'Now' Concept on Time and Space - Part 2Send us a text"Designing an experience is a unique responsibility of an architect. The theory of phenomenology acknowledges this responsibility by implementing sensory design in order to establish experiential, architectural space. Phenomenology demonstrated in architecture is the manipulation of space, material, and light and shadow to create a memorable encounter through an impact on the human senses. This theory promotes the integration of sensory perception as a function of a built form. " [from file:///C:/Users/user/Desktop/essay2.pdf]. The discussion is an explorative one using the design of a bus stop that we had...
2022-03-0322 min
Talk ArchitectureArchitecture and Practice: Do we need the Portfolio Review [Design Thesis] ? - Part 3Send us a textThe final part of the discussion on the assessment and examination processes called the Portfolio Review which is symptomatic of the architecture education system in Malaysian schools of architecture. Focusing on the Design Thesis. © 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd YaacobPhoto: Design Thesis 2019-2020 unit 2 online discussion by Naziaty Mohd YaacobSupport the showDo subscribe for premium content and special features which will help to support and sustain Talk Architecture podcast on a more in-depth explanation on design thesis and processes. These special commentaries and ‘how...
2022-03-0325 minTalk ArchitectureArchitecture and Practice: Do we need the Portfolio Review? - Part 2Send us a textContinuing the discussion on the assessment and examination processes called the Portfolio Review which is symptomatic of the architecture education system in Malaysian schools of architecture. Is it just a way to verify the grades or a way to ensure quality is maintained? What is it for really? © 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd YaacobPhoto: Talk Architecture image by Naziaty Mohd YaacobSupport the showDo subscribe for premium content and special features which will help to support and sustain Talk Architecture podcast on a more in...
2022-03-0324 min
Talk ArchitectureArchitecture and Practice: Do we need the Portfolio Review? - Part 1Send us a textThis discussion compares the assessment and examination processes with the AA School of Architecture, and other schools that have terms, with Malaysian schools of architecture. Many architecture schools in Malaysia follow what is practised among others more established and also the incorporation of portfolio review in the examination process. This is not the only mechanism that is needed to be revised or reflected its use and function. However we will investigate this first. © 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd YaacobPhoto: Section of Design Thesis by Naziaty Mohd YaacobSu...
2022-02-2530 min
Talk ArchitectureDesign Process: The 'Now' Concept on Time and Space - Part 1Send us a textViewing from the mental health perspective, including mind, body and soul concept, we ventured into the notion of "time and space". The relevance of the past only as precedents and only to learn from, and any recollection is for the "now" suggests that "time is relative" and there is no such thing as time, actually. "Space" therefore needs all the "nowness" of sensorial experiences to validate it, which is difficult in conceptualization and visualization of the architectural concept. This discussion veers to "phenomenology in architecture".© 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
2022-02-1118 min
Talk ArchitectureArchitecture Practice: A chat on Part 3 (LAM) & finding jobsSend us a textThe 1st day Lunar Year chat around the dining table. Four individuals chatting about Part 3 Professional Certification and comparing it to getting doctorate. Issues of getting jobs and mentoring. Same protagonists as Part 3 & 4 episodes on Architecture Design Problems, but more about practice. Excuse the language used and it’s partly in Malay language about 1/4 of the time in parts. Thanks for listening. ©️2022 Talk Architecture. Author: Naziaty Mohd YaacobPhoto (artwork): “ Tiger (Cat) Lunar Year on a ledge” by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob Support the showDo subscribe for premium...
2022-02-0819 min
Talk ArchitectureThe Basics of A School of Architecture - Part 3: Essentials of Practical TrainingSend us a textWhy do we have practical training subjects in architecture schools? In particular to be done traditionally as a "year out" course after the 3rd year and before the M Arch or 4th year. I found the experience an essential part of learning and gaining confidence, and believe that at least 6 months and better still, a year of practical training having a certain role in an architecture company would be the best way to learn. This podcast centred on what makes a good practical training experience for the student of architecture.© 2022 Talk A...
2022-02-0821 min
Talk ArchitectureArchitecture Design Problem (Part 4): Designing with ConfidenceSend us a textA continuation of the informal chat on the first day of the Lunar Year of the Tiger (February 1, 2022) with Kamelia Jambari and Amalina Azizan, from the last podcast episode on "designing with confidence". Kamelia, started her own architectural design business called Studio Ti.Tinta, and Amalina started a design and build business called Se Bulan Design (both are Instagram handles). Hope the conversation gives some insights on the issue. Happy New Year of the Tiger! © 2022 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd YaacobPhoto (artwork): "Tiger Lunar Year chat" by Naz...
2022-02-0311 min
Talk ArchitectureArchitecture Design Problem (Part 3): A Conversation with Graduate ArchitectsSend us a textAn informal chat on the first day of the Lunar Year of the Tiger (February 1, 2022) with Kamelia Jambari and Amalina Azizan, where we started off with "research by design" or "design by research" conundrum. Then somehow, it led to us having a chat about senior living and accessibility. We tried to steer back to what we started. Hopefully some insights on the thoughts of the graduate architects on the architecture design problem. Do join us in this podcast that was done on a fine afternoon at the dining table.Happy New...
2022-02-0325 min
Talk ArchitectureArchitecture Design Problem (Part 2): The Second YearSend us a textWe need to be mindful of how the design studio curriculum and the corresponding subjects are set up in the first degree. This podcast episode is on the second-year studio projects but led the discussion on how soon the 'theory of architecture' needs to be learned. The design problem at this level will relate more to the building type rather than the size of the project. More discussion on this precise debate of the first and second year together, in the next podcast. Happy New Year of the Tiger! © 2022 Tal...
2022-01-3117 min
Talk ArchitectureArchitecture Design Problem (Part 1): Design Thesis exampleSend us a textThe most complicated project when it comes to identifying the design problems is the design thesis course at the final year of an M Arch education or the fifth year final project. The students will need to choose a topic and a site, for the issues-driven project or building type project where inevitably the site issues are less addressed and the design is more to do with justifying the architecture programmes. This is an introduction to the topic inspired by my chat with a student who needed clarification on his design thesis at...
2022-01-2914 min
Talk ArchitectureThe Basics of A School of Architecture - Part 2: "How are we teaching sustainability?"Send us a textThe second part of our proposal of the Basics of A School of Architecture is on: "How are we teaching sustainability?" I referred to my architectural theory notes from this semester, defining the difference between 'green building' and 'sustainability'. My opinion is that we are in danger of not teaching properly 'sustainability' to future architects. The root of the problem is partly due to us lecturers, either unaware of this fact or being afraid to deal with urbanity, urban design, neighborhoods, and community issues, leaving it to the planners to 'design' our cities...
2022-01-1939 min
Talk ArchitectureArchitecture & Disability: Design Thinking ideas - Part 2Send us a textSome invaluable insights (from the article with the link below) "Designing with accessibility in mind: a conversation". We continue the 2nd Part on Design Thinking and how we need to include all persons' needs when designing architecture or a product. However, this article author sends another message where it is equally important to include persons with different disabilities in co-designing and involved in the design processes and tools from the start until finish. We reviewed the article's points to the discussion on design thinking.https://techcrunch.com/2021/03/09/designing-with-accessibility-in-mind-a-conversation/© 2022 Talk Architecture, Au...
2022-01-1926 min
Talk ArchitectureArchitecture & Disability: Design Thinking ideas - Part 1Send us a textWhat are the biases that we have when finding a solution for a disabled person? Would a physically disabled person be able to work as a farmer or a mechanic? Would a blind person be able to practice architecture?Referring to the article (link below) at ideo.org popularly advocating design thinking, one of the authors did research on this topic of 'disabled persons and livelihood' and conducted a participant workshop on brainstorming possibilities on how a disabled person can do the work which people perceived to be impossible. h...
2022-01-1325 min
Talk ArchitectureArchitecture & Practice: Lessons learned from online teachingSend us a textHappy New Year - 2022!In the last 9 weeks, students came back to the campus and tutors conducted hybrid learning with a mixture of online and face-to-face interactions. Despite the fears of getting Covid-19, we, both students and tutors relied on our trust and instinct, with SOPs (standard operating procedures) to conduct the latter mode especially.I discussed how I developed a new perspective on the difference between online and face-to-face interactions in the architecture design studio, what makes the difference, and why face-to-face interactions are important. No one told me...
2021-12-3116 minTalk ArchitectureArchitecture & Practice: How to teach architectureSend us a textUsing my second-year students as an example, I explained how I am teaching my students to design to come up with the scheme. This is the batch where they did online learning for the whole of the first year and had only been at the campus in the last 9 weeks. Focusing on the use of precedents and the critical part before getting the narrative and concept. This gives a sense of what a student deals at the beginning of an introduction to the design process.© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
2021-12-3023 min
Talk ArchitectureDesigning for disability helps everyoneSend us a textDesigning for disability helps everyoneWe refer to Elise Roy's talks and an article that stated why accessibility is important, not only from a moral and legal standpoint but also from a business perspective that gives value to the product and solution."I believe that losing my hearing was one of the greatest gifts I've ever received," says Elise Roy. As a disability rights lawyer and design thinker, she knows that being Deaf gives her a unique way of experiencing and reframing the world -- a perspective that could...
2021-12-1921 min
Talk ArchitectureArchitecture Design: Inclusion & Disability Access - Part 2Send us a textPart 2 review of an article by Zach Mortice found at the AIA website (American Institute of Architecture), which told a story of the current phenomenon on disability access and inclusion practice by architects. The idea that the 'design intent' of architecture is based on inclusion, is the most ideal situation for any buildings. “Accessibility is a topic that should be brought to the very beginning of any project,” Braitmayer said. Link to the article: https://www.aia.org/articles/6215411-design-for-all-requires-a-culture-change-iFor further information, do join the Facebook Group...
2021-12-1830 min
Talk ArchitectureTheory of Architecture: Context first, form later (Part 3) - Why is the student stuck?Send us a textReflecting on situations when we encounter the student is stuck and cannot move forward with his design, we ask why? A couple of conclusions based on some deliberations: 1) Lack of understanding 'context' for the first-degree student where there is too much fixation on 'form' learned in the first year; 2) Lack of design approach on dealing with the context and coming up with programs that cannot support the 'concept' for the design thesis (MArch) student. This is just an interlude that I am thinking about right now.© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd Yaacob
2021-11-1516 min
Talk ArchitectureTheory of Architecture: Context first, form later (Part 2) - Context is about people and relationshipsSend us a textYou cannot take out 'people' from the context. Context is arguably very tangible, as we can assume that form is obviously tangible. Chris Alexander, 1971, said that: form is the design solution whereas, context defines the design problem. Context comes first, form later. Defining the context well, understanding people and relationships, she is trying to be 'in the user' who is using the space, thus the designer makes sense of the place, connecting people with the existing context, making a 'new context'. Taking into account the old setting, transforming into a new setting. What c...
2021-11-0820 min
Talk ArchitectureTheory of Architecture: Context first, form later (Part 1) - Context is about people and relationshipsSend us a textContext is about people and relationships.“The ultimate object of design is form” (Christopher Alexander, 1977). He further stated that: “Every design problem begins with an effort to achieve fitness between two entities: the form in question and its context”. The form is the solution to the problem; the context defines the problem”But what is 'context'?We continue the conversation around this quote:"Design is the Conversation Between Creativity and Context" (Kevin Mark Low (author) in Small Projects, ORO Editions (May 1, 2014)). More on the dis...
2021-11-0519 min
Talk ArchitectureTheory of Architecture: Context first, form later (An introduction)Send us a textWe continue the conversation around this quote:"Design is the Conversation Between Creativity and Context" (Kevin Mark Low (author) in Small Projects, ORO Editions (May 1, 2014))Introducing on 'specific context', which later was often quoted as 'context specificities' (after Low), when dealing with a design project, may it be a real-life project or a student's project in the second year, I would like to refer to the quote above and after that I would quote Chris Alexander in his book "Notes on the Synthesis of Form" (1971), in particular, this one: “The ul...
2021-11-0122 min
Talk ArchitectureTheory & Practice: How to design for inclusivity? (Part 2)Send us a textDiscussion on how to design for inclusivity, focusing on adaptive re-use and conservation practice, suggesting ways on how to go about this based on some case studies. You would want your design to include as many people as possible, especially if it is a public building. But you do not want to make your building feel like it's a 'medical facility' with all those stainless steel railings, for example. What can you do? © 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd YaacobPhoto (artwork): "Pavement tiles in Raub" by Naziaty Mohd Yaa...
2021-10-2019 min
Talk ArchitectureTheory & Practice: How to design for inclusivity? (Part 1)Send us a textYou would want your design to include as many people as possible, especially if it is a public building. But you do not want to make your building feel like it's a 'medical facility' with all those stainless steel railings, for example. What can you do? Some thoughts here on how to approach your design and achieve a balance in making it more functional and yet, aesthetically pleasing. How to negotiate all those compliance and standards and feel good about the aesthetics of your building and getting your desired outcomes, yet feel pleased...
2021-10-1517 min
Talk ArchitectureTeaser: Post Podcast Session on "Can Malaysian Architecture Schools be like the AA School?"Send us a textThis is a podcast outlining the questions and discussion points that will be addressed in this session: “Session #1 - School of Architecture ” the topic of "Can Malaysian Architecture Schools be like the AA School?"The host of Talk Architecture, Naziaty Mohd Yaacob will be discussing with Amna Emir, Cheah Ee Von, Huat Lim and moderated with Nur Izzati among others. You won't want to miss it! Please be at the session hosted by the clubhouse room: School of Architecture. Tuesday, 21 Sep at 8:30 PM MYT @clubhouse© 2021 Talk Archit...
2021-09-1923 min
Talk ArchitectureTheory of Architecture - Human Relationship with the Built Environment [Part 2]Send us a textIn the second part of a recent podcast in series 6, we continue with the discussion of how the theory of architecture includes the human perspective in terms of "function". Based on the Bloomberg City Lab article written by Anna Zivarts, on April 23, 2021, entitled "The ‘15-Minute City’ Isn’t Made for Disabled Bodies", we discussed further how it is important for architects and designers to relearn about "function". Additional training on how to "design with empathy" would make designers be good designers and include all persons when they design as they would be thorough in the...
2021-09-1910 min
Talk ArchitectureTeaser - Interview with Ch'ng Sao Inn on Design and SchoolSend us a textA teaser on an upcoming interview with the Principal Architect of Saoinn Architect.What does design mean to you? Why do you think school is important? This featured podcast will be a dialogue on everything and anything about school and design between Sao Inn and Naziaty.Born in Penang Island, Sao Inn received both of his architectural degree from University of Malaya. He joined GDP Architects in 2004, and later Juteras Design Workshop in 2008. In the following years, he worked alongside local builders and craftsmen under one roof. He...
2021-07-0412 min
Talk ArchitectureSite-context issues driven design thesis projects - part 2 (why it is the best approach)Send us a textThis podcast session concentrates on the design thesis studio learning experience, the importance of the design studio philosophy and the studio masters team. Theory and Practice goes hand in hand. And the learning experience for the student of architecture should reflect theory and practice that blend together. We need to focus on the design process and how it is important for the architecture student in the final year via the design thesis to go through all the process right until the detail design stage. (See artwork diagram)Why do we do the co...
2021-06-2130 min
Talk ArchitectureDesign Process in Architecture Studio Curriculum (Part 4) - Revisit the DiagramSend us a textDetail design can assist with the beginning stages of a design process. At the very beginning, sometimes you find something very compelling that is an insight which could assist with the the design concept. Detail design is used in conjunction with design development that can come later, towards the end of the design process, while studying certain concepts learned elsewhere that would help you to go in depth and working out the design better. However, detail design could happen at the beginning stages at conceptualizing and visualizing stage.© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: N...
2021-05-2315 min
Talk ArchitectureInterlude: Emerging trend on housing for multi-generational livingSend us a textThis is a short piece (interlude) to tease further discussion on the topics and themes of "multi-generational living", "lifetime homes" and the like, coming from many clubhouse app sessions that was on similar themes and the latest debate of 'home care' versus 'residential home'. Architects and designers could be interested in this topics, as it's an interesting niche to 'design with empathy' and universal design ideas to be implemented in retrofitting projects or home modifications. Naziaty Mohd Yaacob will be talking more on this in the future (as an extension to architecture education...
2021-04-2009 min
Talk ArchitectureDesign Process in Architecture Studio Curriculum (Part 3) - Revisit the DiagramSend us a textComing up to the 1st year anniversary of the Talk Architecture podcast, we revisited the Diagram of the architecture design process that was produced right after the COVID-19 pandemic started last year and the lockdown situation that may have affected the usual studio-based learning programs. Some interesting insights were gained and I would assert that there are Pros rather than Cons to the situation, where a more precise desk crit / learning from the peers process can be had for most of the students together rather than few. Students can decide to "tune in"...
2021-04-2029 min
Talk ArchitectureTeaching Universal Design to Architecture StudentsSend us a textRecently I was given the opportunity to teach Universal Design to architecture students and crit their studio project by asking the students to think more of functionality, designing in detail and considering universal design as an approach to their design. One set of students in the masters of architecture course, for a housing project and another set of students in the second year doing a few projects with the user/s in mind. There is another smaller group of masters of architecture students that is taking the elective course on universal design. I am...
2021-04-1417 min
Talk ArchitecturePlace-making: An exploration on the sense of placeSend us a textI was at the student's project site today and wondered: Do we build communities around the place or build the place around communities? Is 'space' a too generic a word, and 'place' the better word, providing more context specificity? What is the fundamental characteristics of a place? I would argue for 'nature' and it's essential presence, that provides a sense of place and make possible the communing of a place to occur rather than creating a 'place' for a group of people just to 'hang-out'. How do we create places that provide that...
2021-03-1330 min
Talk ArchitectureSocial Enterprise for Architecture GraduatesSend us a text"Social Enterprise for Universal Design Solutions" is the topic for our upcoming Clubhouse event starting at 8 pm, Wednesday, March 3rd, 2021, to be hosted by Naziaty Yaacob. An introduction on what is a 'social entrepreneur' or social enterprise, exploring the subject of 'problems in society', becoming a social entrepreneur, particularly for academics and architecture students, system thinking, and how to build a prototype, including definitions and terms relating to disability, universal design and the Malaysian eco-system of social entrepreneurship, will be discussed for the first time. We hope to find out who are interested...
2021-03-0224 min
Talk ArchitectureSummary on "Architecture School - was it useful?"Send us a textWe discussed this topic on 24 February 2021 at 8 to 10 pm, at a Clubhouse app event: "Architecture School - was it useful?", and as I mentioned, the intention was to find topics for further discussion, and the following summary, which I expanded in the podcast, and based on the quotes from the participants (speakers) were mainly; 1. Humanities study in university, and, 2. Learning Relationships. The former is more about Liberal Arts courses such as literature and ancient text, apart from philosophy, and the latter is on mentoring, peer-review and networking. There were other top...
2021-02-2520 min
Talk ArchitectureDesign Process in Architecture Studio Curriculum - Part 2Send us a textWe revisit the diagram that could be applied to any project that deals with a real site rather than hypothetical site or issue, which we introduced in April 27 2020 podcast, where the idea behind the diagram was done in an introductory manner. Now we explained how this design process can work in both the lower years and in the final year, comparing our current second year project with the design thesis project.© 2021 Talk Architecture, Author: Naziaty Mohd YaacobArt work in podcast is the diagram by Naziaty Mohd Yaacob called the d...
2021-01-1729 min
Talk ArchitectureDesign Process in Architecture Studio Curriculum (Part 1)Send us a textThis diagram can be applied to any project that deals with a real site rather than hypothetical site or issue. The importance to understand that design process for architecture education programs are cyclical, in four stages, rather than linear. The beginning stage is always about the design brief, given or to be developed by the designer, which also deals with the site visit, analysis and researching the programs. The second stage focuses on starting the proper design process and is always a challenge for the student to INTERPRET the brief, where it is...
2020-04-2612 min