Street life studies.
During a summer course, I had the opportunity to study in Cambodia and collaborate with Royal University of Fine Arts (RUFA) architecture students to observe street life and urban issues between Sydney and Phnom Penh.
Sydney, Australia.
The course began in Sydney and we sketched and observed street life and the factors which enabled these activities.
My group focused on elements of the facade of the buildings along Anzac Parade, Kensington. Visual data diagrams were then created based on the different types modifications and elements being placed on the facade, which influences the level of activity present on the streets.
Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
The same activity was conducted in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. In contrast to Sydney, where the streets are mainly used as a path from point A to point B, Phnom Penh is bustling with activity- from merchants to cooking, resting to even doing haircuts.
Mapping using sticky notes were used to collate data on different driving factors on the facade modifications. The main components were grouped by security, climate, identity and commerce. Sydney and Phnom Penh both experience hot climates, leading many of the modifications made on the facade being climate management, such as awnings and fans.
Urban intervention.
Street life observations allowed for a clearer understanding of user modifications made to support living habits and activities of the streets. Through these activities, urban interventions were made to further enrich street life.
In Phnom Penh, many rain drainage system pipes were simple extensions from the buildings, where the rain water would shoot straight onto the streets below. By placing bright thermochromic pipe systems in a grid like formation within a chaotically seasoned city, the water could be stored and utilised misting people and plants whilst also being an art installation feature. Below the pipes there is a rotomoulded seat which doubles as a water tank, and an added hammock and additional pipes to lean your bike. This added cooling, resting spot can support people’s behaviours and activities and further enhance the experience.
Reflection.
Studies in observing street life in Cambodia have developed skills in identifying and responding to issues or behaviours and reflect this in designs. Engaging in a team from another country with language barriers and project time constraints proved to be very stressful, however was a very rewarding experience which strengthened my organisational abilities and team work skills, as well as my ability to observe to gain insights into characterisation of behaviour.