Intercultural Design | Final Compilation

Gao Yuan Yi 0373945

GCD61304 Intercultural Design / Bachelor of Design (Hons) in Creative Media / Taylor's University

Final Compilation

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Link to Project 1 Proposal

Link to Project 2 Field Study

Link to Final Project

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Project 1- Proposal

https://www.canva.com/design/DAGfbkes2rM/8SFK6kmm9RRVFQcQo0vPJA/edit?utm_content=DAGfbkes2rM&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton

Project 2 - Field Study

https://www.canva.com/design/DAGgwXRR_Gw/AOR6J2gSL0f-mvUkhIM8oA/edit?utm_content=DAGgwXRR_Gw&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton

Data collection drive:

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1qapp68_harwVeoSw9OP46wc3TVFXO0wx?usp=share_link

Final Project

https://www.canva.com/design/DAGh_I6JmqU/S2mgStdtQsMAc1G18czzow/edit?utm_content=DAGh_I6JmqU&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton

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REFLECTIONS

Experience

In the Intercultural Design course, I learned how to integrate cultural elements into modern design to create works with depth and meaning. Initially, our research scope was broad, focusing on the application of Muslim culture in daily necessities. However, under the guidance of our supervisor, we refined our focus to Muslim architecture, allowing for a more in-depth and structured exploration.

Throughout the teamwork process:

• Each team member contributed architectural references from different countries. 
• A Chinese Muslim teammate provided photos of mosques from his hometown, while other members gathered examples from various regions. 
• We conducted on-site investigations, including a visit to the Pink Mosque in Malaysia, where we gathered first-hand visual and structural data. 
• Ultimately, we applied our research insights to design a Muslim architecture-inspired logo and explored its applications on bags and tissue boxes, demonstrating the fusion of culture and modern design. 

Observation

Through research, I observed that Muslim architecture, despite being globally unified, exhibits regional diversity:

Common Features:

• Geometric patterns, arched structures, and calligraphic decorations are recurring elements, symbolizing faith and harmony. 

Regional Differences:

• Middle East – Grand and luxurious, emphasizing gold and marble materials (e.g., Al-Azhar Mosque). 
• China – Incorporates Han-style architecture, featuring wooden structures and upturned eaves (e.g., Huajue Lane Mosque in Xi'an). 
• Southeast Asia – Blends local cultural elements and features vibrant colors (e.g., Pink Mosque in Malaysia). 

Beyond aesthetics, I also noticed that mosques serve as cultural and social hubs, inspiring us to incorporate cultural integration symbols into our logo design.

Findings

1. Cross-Cultural Design Goes Beyond Aesthetics

• It requires a deep understanding of cultural backgrounds.
• Islamic geometric patterns are not mere decorations; they symbolize order, spirituality, and faith.

2. Balancing Tradition and Modernity

• Directly replicating architectural elements may result in designs that are too complex or impractical.
• By adopting a simplified geometric approach, we preserved cultural essence while ensuring modern appeal.

3. Design as a Cultural Bridge

• By applying the Muslim architecture logo to bags and tissue boxes, we transformed cultural symbols into functional and accessible designs.
• This approach not only conveys aesthetic value but also raises awareness and appreciation of Muslim culture.

Conclusion

This course has provided me with valuable insights into expressing cultural identity through design. It has taught me how to innovate within modern aesthetics while respecting traditions. From research and field investigation to final logo design, each phase was filled with challenges and growth opportunities.

Moving forward, I aspire to continue exploring cross-cultural design, creating works that bridge cultures and add meaningful value to the design world.