OVERVIEW
This studio represents the 5th collaboration between China's Tianjin University and UCLA Architecture and Urban Design. Led by Ben Refuerzo this is the 12th cross-cultural studio to take place.
The main focus of this studio is to foster cross-cultural issues as design determinants in order to develop new typologies for the design process.
This year’s studio sited at the WuDang Lamassery, along the Jihuluntu Mountain of YiShan Mountain Ranges, focusing on the design a new Museum of Tibetan Buddhism. It will be a place to collect, exhibit, and study all the relics and data about Tibetan Buddhism. Tibetan Buddhism has a distinctive character both in religious conception and architectural style.
Students will consider important historical Buddhist symbols and traditions in order to create an architectural response/s that are not only timely but might also transcend the present….linking the project to its roots and to the future. The use of form as well as spatial organizing systems were extremely important in the discourse that ultimately lead students to the design parti and to the resolution of the manifesto they have followed. It has also important for the studio to understand the relationship of the museum to the site as well as the land it is grounded to.
The students from both universities participated in an intensive 5 day workshop at Tianjin University where discussions were held on housing as well as a charrette project that was designed to foster intellectual thoughtful discussion and group participation. After the workshops end and final review students traveled to the Commune By the Great Wall for their final celebration. UCLA students also visited historical/modern sites in Beijing, the Forbidden City, Temple of Good Harvest, Birds Nest, Hybrid Housing, and CCTV to name a few. Visits to the Expo in Shanghai also took place.Refuerzo's studio will host their Chinese counterparts during their UCLA visit in June.
