(R)evolving: Second Nature

This research aims to examine and explore the impact the Anthropocene (anthropo, for ‘person’ and cene, for ‘new’) has on nature, the planet’s climate, and ecosystem. Through a series of design future strategies such as transition design and speculative design, this project, entitled Second Nature, has undertaken focus group studies, workshops, and interviews to address the rising negative consequences of human’s impact on nature. By studying the results of these findings, Second Nature aims to design for the coexistence and cohabitation of humans with nature at this critical point in today’s deteriorating climate.

Transition design provides a holistic framework that acknowledges the interconnectedness of social, ecological, and technological systems, engaging stakeholders to transition towards a more sustainable future by considering the long-term implications of design decisions and engaging with stakeholders in the process. Speculative Design, on the other hand, explores potential future scenarios, questions assumptions, and challenges the status quo through design fiction to create narratives of future possibilities that can engage stakeholders in envisioning a better future and exploring potential solutions to complex problems.

Convos for Good

Singapore’s population is rapidly aging, which puts both the elderly and adults at a higher risk of developing diseases, dementia, and experiencing advanced aging prior to death. Despite this trend, many people hesitate to plan for their future healthcare options in the event they are unable to make decisions for themselves due to the taboo nature of the topic.

Therefore, this project aims to design an Advanced Care Planning (ACP) starter kit that enables Singaporeans to have easy and lighthearted conversations with their loved ones about their future care preferences and correct any misconceptions regarding ACP.

Muuv: Small actions, better health

Engaging in regular physical activity has been proven to be an effective method for the prevention and management of numerous diseases, reducing the risk of injuries and enhancing one’s overall well-being. However, for many individuals, participating in physical activities can be challenging due to various barriers to exercise.

To address this issue, Muuv, a social fitness application, was designed as a tool to assist inactive individuals in improving their physical health. By breaking down barriers towards physical activity, building sustainable fitness habits, and empowering users to develop self-efficacy in achieving their fitness goals in a sociable and enjoyable manner, these individuals have the potential to enjoy a significantly enhanced quality of life.

Rekindle: The Beauty in Tang Poetry

Chinese Tang poetry, which adheres to strict prosodic rules, is infused with a wealth of cultural and historical significance. Poems frequently function as a medium for expressing the poet’s profound emotions, ethical beliefs, and attitudes towards everyday life. However, the complex and distinctive nature of the Chinese language poses limitations on interlingual translation, leading to the loss of the artistic conception of Tang poetry during the translation process. This led to an under-appreciation for these poems among individuals with limited proficiency in the Chinese language.

Rekindle: The Beauty in Tang Poetry; seeks to explore alternative ways of translating Tang poetry that go beyond the constraints of textual means. This study proposes the use of musical and visual components as a means of effectively communicating the intangible nuances and the beauties of form, sense, and sound that are intrinsic to Tang poetry. The final design deliverables are showcased through a combination of publication scrolls and motion graphics, aimed at communicating the unique characteristics, interpretations, and significance of four sets of Chinese Tang poems written by Li Bai. This approach aims to address the difficulties that arise in the translation process, with the ultimate goal of enhancing the understanding and appreciation among readers from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

Essence of Hawker Centres

Singapore is renowned as a food haven, largely due to our hawker foods. However, with the city-state’s rapid digitalisation and growth, it has become increasingly challenging to preserve the traditional hawker culture. Consequently, it is likely that hawker centres in Singapore will undergo significant changes, and the cultural landscape of hawker culture will inevitably shift in the near future. To combat this, this project’s main objective will be to archive and document hawker centres through the eyes of locals, with the aim of preserving the rich culture that these hawker centres embody.

 

By exploring the subtleties and nuances of hawker centres across the city-state, this project hopes to uncover the true essence of hawker culture in Singapore. This will not only foster a sense of identity amongst the local community but also serve to celebrate the unique hawker culture that has flourished in Singapore for generations. By documenting and archiving the cultural significance of these hawker centres, the project aims to preserve this vibrant part of Singapore’s heritage for future generations to appreciate and cherish.