DANNY TUMMY

Divine Find? Peter Zumthor on 31st Dec 2010

2010-12-31T08:18:00.001-08:00

During lunch break on 31st Dec 2010, i decided to drop by Basheer at Bras Basah to get my architecture dosage. Suprisingly, suprisingly, I found this on the shelves. I must say it is a miracle because it is selling at $1000 on Ebay and Amazon.com and it is already out of print.
It has always been my dream ever since i admire Peter Zumthor to have this book. What do i say God? It is a miracle.... Thank you so much.

Married on 18th Dec 2010

2010-12-31T07:54:00.000-08:00

Dear my lovely wife, with this vow i pledge my life to you...

That I, Daniel Chua… in the presence of Almighty God

take you Tan Ling Yin, to be my wedded wife,

for better for worse,

for richer for poorer,

in sickness and in health,

to love and to cherish till death do us part,

according to God’s holy ordinances,

and there to I pledge thee my love.

Content

2010-11-24T07:47:00.000-08:00

The secret of contentment is knowing how to enjoy what you have, and to be able to lose all desire for things beyond your reach.
-Lin Yutang

The being of imperfection

2010-11-24T07:35:00.000-08:00

I cling to my imperfection, as the very essence of my being.

Anatole France (1844 - 1924)

What Your Tea?

2010-11-02T08:09:00.000-07:00

Which Gryphon Tea should you drink…
When you’re tired? Lemon Ginger Mint.
“Its aroma is very soothing and refreshing.”
When you need a little pick-me-up? Straits Chai.
“With milk, it fills me up nicely and really perks me up.”
When you’re deep in reflection? High Grown Iron Buddha.
“This tea is full of depth and has a long finish. I usually prepare and drink this tea from a Chinese tea set placed next to my laptop.”
When you’re on a date? Pearl of the Orient.
“My wife loves this flavour, and so do a lot of other women.”

The Consciousness of the Ordinary

2010-11-02T07:11:00.001-07:00

"Design makes things seem special, and who wants normal if they can have special? And that’s the problem. What has grown naturally and unselfconsciously over the years cannot easily be replaced. The normality of a street of shops which has developed over time, offering various products and trades, is a delicate organism. Not that old things shouldn’t be replaced or that new things are bad, just that things which are designed to attract attention are usually unsatisfactory. There are better ways to design than putting a big effort into making something look special. Special is generally less useful than normal, and less rewarding in the long term."
- Jasper Morrison

“'Super Normal' is less concerned with designing beauty than seemingly homely but memorable elements of everyday life. Certainly nothing 'flash'or 'eye-catching;' never contrived, but rather almost 'naff' yet somehow appealing. As if, when viewing something with expectations of a new design, our negative first impressions of 'nothing much' or 'just plain ordinary' shifted to '… but not bad at all.' Overcoming an initial emotional denial, our bodily sensors pick up on an appeal we seem to have known all along and engage us in that strangely familiar attraction. Things that possess a quality to shake us back to our senses are 'Super Normal.'"

-Naoto Fukasawa

Recently, got a birthday present. A watch that i truly desire for many years but just cant bring myself to buy it... The Twelve Watch by Issey Miyake designed by Naoto Fukusawa personifies the " Super Normal".... Design that makes the ordinary "super normal". The consciousness to know that the ordinary is not banal... but special. From the hmmm ... to the aha... That my goal in design

XS: Very Small Projects

2010-05-03T06:11:00.000-07:00

Today i embarked on a very very small project. Some interior fit-out of an office lobby.

As disillusioned as i am about the scale of it, i am inspired by these words of Kevin Mark Low of smallproject

"There was a game I played when I first began work as an architect to keep the passion alive. It was called small projects.

The game basically involved reducing any given task to its smallest distinct parts in order to understand how they were all related, a humanising of each task in the faceless grind of professional practice. A meeting with a client became a task of how certain words put together in particular ways could end in a new idea built or an opportunity lost. Site work became a project of understanding the subtle differences of each contractor's operation and the bearing that had with how they built. The design of a door entailed the reassessment of each joint to see if the whole could be made any more effectively. The design of a house began with the single activity that a family related itself most to, and a master plan was reduced to relating the simplest cultural fundamentals of food, work, travel, learning, rest and play. Basic functions so taken for granted, like what happened just before sleep and right after waking or how toilets were used, the way roof eaves functioned or how gutters really worked, each served as a beginning to subvert the dominant paradigm. And the discovery was that the beauty of each and every project was less found in how they actually turned out than how the design of each was informed by the dynamics of use and the intricate relationships of elements or events around them. Relevant design was not merely about the form of the project, it was about why and how the project was formed."

Perhaps that where in the smallest details, God is there.

Presence of an Absence - IDT Session 2

2010-01-10T06:28:00.000-08:00

There is a presence of the absence of God in our lives. God is often relegated to the marginal corners of our lives. Our waking moments are often engaged with urgent commitments and before we know it, we are beset with subtle but fatal compromises.

This session explores our quiet desperation. It examines the absence of God in our Christian experience: an absence that has come about because of a stagnant spirit and a secularized spirituality.It calls us to live beyond the temporal so that Christ is preeminent in our lives.

The Laws of Simplicity - John Maeda

2010-01-01T22:50:00.000-08:00

TEN LAWS OF SIMPLICITY

1. REDUCE- The simplest way to achieve simplicity is through thoughtful reduction

2. ORGANIZE - Organization makes a system of many appear fewer

3.TIME - Savings in time feel like simplicity

4. LEARN - Knowledge makes everything simpler

5.DIFFERENCES - Simplicity and complexity need each other

6.CONTEXT - What lies in the periphery of simplicity is definitely not peripheral

7. EMOTION - More emotions are better than less

8. TRUST -In simplicity we trust

9. FAILURE - Some things can never be made simple.

10. THE ONE - Simplicity is about subtracting the obvious, and adding the meaningful

THREE KEYS
1. AWAY- More appears like less by simply moving it far far away

2. OPEN - Openness simplifies complexity

3. POWER - Use less, gain more

2010.. Living the Simple Life

2010-01-01T22:38:00.000-08:00

The Christmas and New Year break has offered some respite from the hectic 2009 calendar.

As i look upon the coming 2010... i have only one vision, one aim and one direction

TO HAVE A SIMPLE LIFE
TO BE A SIMPLE PERSON
TO LIVE SIMPLY

I think my search for the way in which i would do and conduct things has been a search for simplicity.
3 Books that i read over the Christmas break has helped in re-affirming that search:
John Maeda-The Laws of Simplicity
Kenya Hara- Designing Design
John Pawson- Minimum

To greatly end this simplicity post is this quote from MUJI
Simplicity is achieved through a complexity of thought and design.

Unpacking My Library: Architect and Their Books

2009-12-19T01:30:00.000-08:00

Recently got a book for my Christmas present.... The title of the book is UNPACKING MY LIBRARY: ARCHITECTS and Their BOOKS.. Really happy with it. Features architects and their libraries. What would my library be like... hmmm. some of which i dont currently own but would like to have in the future.Perhaps i could do a TOP TEN books that has probably shape the way i think so far.... until now.

DANNY TUMMY TOP 10 LIBRARY BOOKS
1. Thinking Architecture / Peter Zumthor
2. Atmospheres /Peter Zumthor
3. In Praise of Shadows/ Junichiro Tanizaki
4. The Function of Ornament / Farshid Moussavi
5. Louis Kahn-Essential Text / Edited by Robert Twombly
6.Primitive Future / Sou Fujimoto
7. Designing Design/Kenya Hara
8.Minimum / John Pawson
9. Architecture, Animal,Human: The Asymmetrical Condition / Catherine Ingraham
10. Complexity and Contradiction in Architecture/ Robert Venturi and Denise Scott Brown

Reading and re-reading these books always remind me of one of the essence of architecture that
architecture is not aesthetics alone, but life processes artfully brought together....

- Catherine Ingraham in her book Architecture,Animal and Human: The Asymmetrical Condition

Currently Reading: The Laws of Simplicity

2009-12-13T08:17:00.000-08:00

The Laws of Simplicity by John Maeda

Travel Quotes

2009-12-13T07:59:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to share some travel retrospective from my short stay in KL that i got off the travel brochure in my hotel.

Travel can be one of the most rewarding forms of introspection
-Lawrence Durrell, author, diplomat, traveler

The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page
- Augustine (354-430 A.D)

Always do more than is required of you.
- Gen George S. Patton

One cannot think well or sleep well, if one has not dined well
- Virginia Woolf

Like all great travelers, I have seen more than i remember, and remember more than i have seen
-Benjamin Disraeli

Knowing the Unknown

2009-11-29T08:37:00.000-08:00

Socrates:
" the only true wisdom is in knowing u know nothing"

Psalm 127:1-2

2009-11-12T09:18:00.000-08:00

Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain
Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain

DESIGN is EVERYTHING

2009-11-11T08:11:00.000-08:00

As i find the source of design. I found 2 significant person. Paul Rand and Ikko Tanaka (founder of MUJI)

Enjoy these quotes

Design is everything. Everything!
Paul Rand

Design is the method of putting form and content together. Design, just as art, has multiple definitions; there is no single definition. Design can be art. Design can be aesthetics. Design is so simple, that's why it is so complicated.
Paul Rand

Providing, meaning to a mass of unrelated needs, ideas, words and pictures - it is the designer's job to select and fit this material together and make it interesting.
Paul Rand

Simplicity is not the goal. It is the by-product of a good idea and modest expectations.
Paul Rand

The Laws of Simplicity : John Maeda

2009-11-11T08:05:00.000-08:00

The whole point of living and simplicity is to enjoy more and work less. That true wisdom.

Enjoy it.

How to Become An Architect

2009-11-11T07:31:00.000-08:00

One of the lazy nights after work, when you start reflecting upon your life after working for 21/2 years .. this is the result of it...

You start GOOGLING why u WANT TO BECOME AN ARCHITECT...

As always, GOOGLE and u get the answer...

From WikiHow:
These steps will show you the path toward becoming an architect. You must be committed and most of all do not do it for money, do it because you love design. ( Very Very important)

Decide if Architecture is for you. Architecture is a difficult profession to pursue, including at least five years of college, as well as the ability to deal with repeated failures. Architects deal with constant pressure from deadlines, competition, and new challenges. However, if you are passionate, it can be very rewarding. ( I guess i have decided.. doing strictly architecture.. no sidelines. that the question i get from peers who do it because they dont have a choice.. or nothing else to do.. My advice.. GET OUT before its too late.We need more passionate ppl)
Get an internship. Many architecture firms may be willing to hire people with little or no experience in the design field. You may end up doing mundane tasks such as making copies and organizing files, but the experience will give you an inside look at what the job actually entails and will also give you an idea if architecture is really right for you. ( Done that during the holidays... so pretty know that i just draw toilets and lift lobbies even after i graduate.. for 2 years... pathetic.)
Take classes. Another way to see if architecture is what you want to do is to take some courses at a local college. Such classes as Freehand Drawing, or a 3D Cad course, will give you an idea of how designs are laid out and constructed. You may also find that you can transfer these credits if you decide to attend college afterwards. ( I think is time to go for art classes again... heck the stupid REVIT. Architecture is about FEELING.. not FEEDING)
Go to college. It is important to get either a Bachelors or Masters degree in Architecture. To obtain positions such as project manager, or if you plan on eventually running your own firm, it is important to have a college degree. Most architectural schools are five years in duration. You may also find that a co-op school works well for you, where you work in a firm during the day and take classes at night. ( yah man, talk about 5 years.. and dont get paid as much as doctors.... and tell u , no girls want architects.. they just want their nerdy doctors)
Get licensed. After receiving your college degree and then interning for three years, you must take the Architect Registration Exam (ARE) to become a licensed architect. This is the final step in becoming an architect. Visit www.ncarb.org for more information on licensure. ( Doing it now)

Thank u WIKI for enlightening me why i want to become an architect.

Currently Reading: The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand

2009-10-04T08:44:00.000-07:00

Decided to re-read this classic which i bought at the airport.. to inspire me again on why i continue to do architecture and why i want to be an architect...

Chapter 1 and i am already inspired...
Excerpt from it
They were sketches of buildings such as had never stood on the face of the earth. They were as the first houses built by the first man born, who had never heard of others building before him. There was nothing to be said of them, except that each structure was inevitably what it had to be. It was not as if the draftsman had sat over them, pondering laboriously. piecing together doors, windows and columns, as his whim dictated and as the books prescribed.It was as if the buildings had sprung from the earth and from some living force, complete, unalterably right. The hand that had made the sharp pencil lines still had much to learn.But not a line seemed superfluous, not a needed plane was missing. The structures were austere and simple, until one looked at them and realised what work, what complexity of method, what tension of thought had achieved the simplicity. No laws had dictated a single detail.

The buildings were not Classical, they were not Gothic, they were not Renaissance, They were only Howard Roark.

What is Beauty?

2009-09-21T08:32:00.000-07:00

During the Hari Raya Break , decided to do some architecture catching -up as opposed to Godly one.
Found this poem written by Moshe Safdie . Saw him in office today. Totally inspring. Totally awe
What is realise is that i am finding similarities and paths between architecture and religion. Funny?

He who seeks truth shall find beauty
He who seeks beauty shall find vanity
He who seeks order shall find gratification
He who seeks gratification shall be dissapointed
He who considers himself the servant of the fellow beings shall find the joy of self-expression
He who works self-expression shall fall into the pit of arrogance
Arrogance is incompatible with nature
Through nature, the nature of the universe and the nature of man, we shall find truth
If we seek truth, we shall find beauty.

- Moshe Safdie

A New Phase of My Faith Journey

2009-09-13T07:24:00.000-07:00

Since my last post in June 30, many things had happened.... just didn't have time to really sit down and reflect upon it.

I see my blog as my reflection more than telling the world what i do... for me to keep track of the changes God has brought me through and how he continues to sustain me and lead me in his grace and faith. The events that God helped to shape my life.

2 very important reflection as the events unfolded in my life these 2 months
A. Entering a new stage of learning
B. Finding a new direction and purpose in life
C. Entering a time of listening, waiting and moulding.

A. Entering a new stage of learning
One thing that i really learnt these past few months is that of change of my attitude of QT from guilt to ritual. I have always struggle with QT, perhaps because i am most awake at nite, but also the most tired after a hard days work. But the Lord has been patient, guiding me in the process of discovering Him all over again. Re-learning my memory verse from Sunday School and re-newing my covenant with him. I still the slowest in my team in terms of devotion but i feel that no matter how tired i am, when i open the Bible, God begins to speak deeply through his verse. I must say it much like the metaphor of thristing for Him...

This stage of learning coincides with a phase of life that i am going through. A phase of taking on greater responsibility in my work, my family and life. What God is preparing me just as much as the economic and psychology maturity is to have the spiritual maturity to sustain it. Its good to be back in the adult Sunday School again.

B.Finding a new direction and purpose in life.
2 significant events help shaped this direction and purpose
1. My current job and company
In the architectural field and just as in any other field, CV is important. And no doubt i admit i a driven person, waiting to work in a good company and move on. But just as important i realised is in honoring God at the same time. I make a wish before my first job application that i would be able to serve you God at the same time as i honor you in my work. I know it is difficult in Architecture to do that but you will provide.
The company that i intentionally wanted to go- Great company, Great Design, Great Learning Experience, Great Pay was somehow rejected. But comes with it- great commitment and time.
My application was rejected for i had intern before in the company. Till this day i dontknow why, but you had a better plan for me.
You opened door to my current company- Great Company, So-so Design, Alright Learning Experience, Ok Pay..... but it allows time for me to serve you in Church.
I guess that was ur way of teaching me Contentment and showing me who is my Master.

2. Climbing Mt Kinabalu
I am a person who likes to set milestones. greatly gratified by accomplishment.And this is one of them. Not so physically but mentally. My motive for climbing was very clear. If i am able to make it to the summit, i conquer all. There is nothing impossible anymore.

What i begin to realise. is that i can only conquer all because of YOU, GOD.... and that after i conquer all, the accomplishment doesnt define me... YOU, O LORD is my definition.

Conquerer with God

2009-06-30T07:03:00.000-07:00

Today is probably the most eventful day in the history of my short career. The day that i remembered that God keep his promises.

Just 2 verses from my QT
" There is no day like it before or since , when the Lord obeyed the voice of a man, for the Lord fought for Israel"
Joshua 10: 14

"In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us"
Romans 8:37

Oh God, all glory goes back to you... Thank you

Slowing Down:Oil on Water

2009-06-05T10:49:00.000-07:00

This is a case of slowing down and doing the silliest thing.

Shawn Knol was "just messing around one day" where he poured oil into a cup of water and filmed it. The result is this beautiful little video footage of Oil in Water.

Oil in Water from Shawn Knol on Vimeo.

Slowing Down Vs Centering Down

2009-06-05T10:30:00.000-07:00

Is time really money?
Are we able to break free from the fast life, the fast food?
Can we really slow down... Is slowing down really inefficient...?

These 6 months has really been a time of slowing down and centering down... putting what really matters to my life....

1. Quiet time with God
2. A good architecture book to inspire and renew me
3. A good cuppa of Earl Grey
4. A sweaty jogging workout
5. A nice walk in the park( to smell the roses) and beach ( to feel the sea breeze)

I realise these are very insignificants things that doesn't make you a successful person.... but to me these things are the fundamentals to my life.. A life that is worth living for.. more than money and fame and status.. which i forever cherish.

I have found that by slowing down and centering down, it has refocus my life and made me work more efficiently.

Thank you for giving me the red pill to discover the many beauty that life has to offer.

In Conversation with.... Classical Music...John Cage and Beethoven

2009-05-31T10:19:00.000-07:00

Back from a classical music performance by one of my colleagues who was performing at the Victoria Concert Hall playing Jean Sibelius and Sergei Rachmaninoff. These classical repertoire does bring back memories of the old days when i was practising my piano for the practical ABRSM exams and learning all the composers name for the theory part. Though i never really became a famous composer, but classical music especially has taught me to appreciate beauty, order and rhythm... emotions... symphony and proportions. I guess it is really true that architecture is like a musical symphony and musical symphony is architecture.
One classical piece that i will always remember from my piano days...
Beethoven ' Fur Elise'

Being classical also brings me to another level of avant-garde in classical music.. namely the American composer John Cage in his famous controversial piece 4' 33"...

Watch it and u know why is its truly avant garde. Kudos... John Cage.
"I have nothing to say and I am saying it" - John Cage

In Conversation with....... Verner Panton

2009-05-25T09:28:00.000-07:00

The Bachelor Chair, my fav at the exhibition

Panton Chair with my Ichikawa Hanpu

The Verner Panton Exhibition

Next to the Christian Lacroix exhibition was the Verner Panton Exhibition. Panton.. as simply say was a rebel... a radical.. an avant garde.

In Conversation with....... Christian Lacroix

2009-05-25T09:09:00.000-07:00

Costumes for the opera, Eliogabalo

Sketches for the ballet, Gatte Parisienne
The Can-can girl

Sketches for the ballet, Gatte Parisienne
The lady in girl

On Sunday, went to the the National Museum to saw the Christian Lacroix exhibition. Though Lacroix is more well- known for his haute couture ... this was another side of him that was rarely known to me... a costumier of operas and ballet performances. It greatly showed his versatility and creativity in making costumes out of our everyday material. The sketches are simply just emotive of the kind of energy that he very much knew from his childhood- bullfighting and the gypsy. He has a great talent of bringing out the character of the story just by dressing. To me, the lesson i have learnt- that is our upbringing and context that we were brought up in shape who we are as our person and truly shape our design.

I hope i will be able to to discover this essence of mine one day... that Serembanian essence.

the 3 Bs and the 3Ss

2009-05-18T09:20:00.000-07:00

It almost coming to 2 years since i started my work and my next stage of life.
As i reflect upon my life this 2 years... the 3 words that has characterize these 2 years has been the three Bs

Busyness
Boredom
Barrenness

But it has ever since been replace with these 3 words ever so the past 6 months..

Study
Solitude
Surrender

I feel something has changed... but yet i don't know the end.. The road ahead looks fussy... but i trust that i may conquer the Giants that is ahead of me.

The True Measure of Faith

2009-05-17T07:49:00.000-07:00

If there is one verse that God has spoken to me through these many months.. It is this verse from Habakkuk that i stumble upon during one of those dark days in my life during the months of November, dealing with all the challenges that i had to face... and God again reminded me to continue to have faith when Valerie spoke during Mothers Day.. It wasn't so much about the sermon, but it was the verse that God again reminded me of ... FAITH.

It was a very clear sign from God to a decision that i have already made

Habakkuk 3: 17-18
Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines,
though the olive crops fails and the fields produce no food,
though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls,
yet I will rejoice in the LORD,
I will be joyful in God my saviour.

Psalm 54:1-7

2009-04-11T06:22:00.000-07:00

O God, save me, by your name, and vindicate me by your might.
O God, hear my prayer, give ear to the words of my mouth.
For strangers have risen against me;
ruthless men seek my life;
they do not set God before themselves.
Behold, God is my helper;
the Lord is the upholder of my life.
He will return the evil to my enemies;
in your faithfulness put an end to them.
With a freewill offering I will sacrifice to you;
I will give thanks to your name,
O Lord, for it is good.
For he has delievered me from every trouble,
and my eye has looked in triumph on my enemies.

The Lesson of Moses

2009-04-11T01:57:00.000-07:00

This week has been pretty hard for me... in work as well as family matters. The very moment i feel that i saw the light in the tunnel , i face another uphill battle with regards to family matters. I just do not want to be disturb and to live normally. Oh God, i really do not need such furthermore stress.

And as i do my devotion, the Lord spoke to me about Moses in Numbers 10-11 where the Israelites have moved from Sinai to Kardesh Baneer and as they journeyed towards there, they lost of the grace that God has brought them out of Egypt. As they started complaning about meat, because God only gave them manna, Moses was having a hard time dealing with them. I guess the words of Moses resonate with me.

Numbers 11:11
Moses said to the Lord, " Why have you dealt till with your servant?And why have i not found favor in your sight, that you lay the burden of all this people on me.

So, God of refuge, grace and mercy, please protect me from all my enemies just as you have promised in Psalm 23. Show me the way, oh God....

And for my enemies, i have this Scripture for you:
The mouth of the righteous brings forth wisdom, but the perverse tongue will be cut off.
The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable, but the mouth of the wicked, what is perverse.

Proverbs 10:31-32

Learning Forgiveness

2009-03-28T17:41:00.000-07:00

Dear God,

I thank you for showing me how to forgive and how to pray to believe as you have shown me in Mark 11:24-25
" Therefore i tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received and it will be yours. And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses."

and truly,

" For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain"
Philippians 1:21

MUJI

2009-03-21T09:08:00.001-07:00

Architect of the Month: Sou Fujimoto

2009-03-21T06:06:00.000-07:00

I had admired the works of Sou Fujimoto ever since i first saw his works.. He is among one of few Japanese young architects which does not have any mentorship with any famous architects like Kazuyo Sejima, Toyo Ito, Kengo Kuma. He is himself... I like his primitive stand to architecture. in his design and form. This house won the Wallpaper* House of the Year. I wish i can be like him one day....

Planetshakers: Beautiful Saviour

2009-03-15T07:10:00.000-07:00

Jesus, you are truly beautiful... beyond description

1 Cross +3 Nails = 4 Given = Crucified

2009-03-15T06:51:00.000-07:00

I am halfway through my discipleship training class. Just finished the mid-term exam and scored very well. Truly surprised at myself.

At this half-way mark, as i look upon myself. i feel i have grown in godliness- The memory verses that i had to remember every week begins to remind me of how great our God is... that he gives us this principle, this challenge and this purpose of me to live in this life... I starting to renew myself in HIM... looking at the Scripture afresh and hungry at his LIVING WORD.

Those memory verses bring backs memory of days in Sunday school when i did very well too... but as a child, those memory verses serve only as head knowledge.Now at age 27, looking back and memorizing the same verses that i did during Sunday school bring afresh a new perspective. It is no longer just knowledge.. but a vow of conscreation.. of being separated and devoted to God and living the Godly life.

For
" I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life i now live in the flesh i live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself to me"
Galatians 2:20

Blessed: The Promises of God

2009-03-15T06:33:00.000-07:00

The settlement of the rent coincided with me receiving the LA from the High Court. Everything was in God planning.

So on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, I manage to settle most of the matters concerning my dad's property. It been a long 2 years wait for the LA. I am truly blessed that God has promise what he promises.

I am very grateful that this heavy burden has been lifted up my shoulder. I thankful for the blessing that he has gratefully poured out on me... For i know finally understood what it means to be waited and trusting upon the LORD

And this verse always ring
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge HIM and He will make straight your paths.
Proverbs 3:5-6

Operation Manga 2

2009-03-15T06:11:00.000-07:00

Victoria Station

100 yen shop at USJ

So as it goes.. Sunday was the D-Day to move out.
And to our surprise... the gangster tenant broke our lock that we bought. I was so annoyed with them...

Since they can break our lock.. we decided to give them a call and if they dont want to shift out by Sunday.. we will break all their lock and throw their stuff outside.. and get the police to catch them since we have made a police report.

I swear i will never rent the unit again...The headache and the stress involved.
I will always remember this day.

So, we waited for them to move out of the house till 8 pm...

So after that, all tired and having no sleep, had a good dinner at Victoria Station.

Which City i Should Live in?

2009-02-28T07:25:00.000-08:00

What City Should You Live In?
	You should live in Paris. The city of lights will appeal to your appreciation of beauty and romance. You are a lover and a poet by nature, and Paris' sensitive charms will be a perfect match for yours.
Find Your Character @ BrainFall.com

Funnily, as much as i like Paris for its charm and romance... it doesnt feel safe. Perhaps the Paris i knew was a tourist Paris... if i ever had the chance again, will check out the bookstore and small cafes in Paris especially in Montmatre. I really loved the musee there... must go back to see Musee de Orsay.. which has Renoir, Picasso, Monet and Van Gogh

My Worst Weekend - Operation Manga

2009-02-21T21:41:00.000-08:00

Siting at Starbucks USJ, rambling away my agony.

Operation MANGA
( not the Japanese manga... but the malay word for padlock)
Purpose : to kick out my tenant from my dad's condo that has not been paying for 6 months
Level of anger: Excruciating because does not want to pick up our call for 6 months
Motive: To kick them out by Sunday, 22 Feb

Sat 21 Feb
- Drove down from Seremban to USJ to the condo
- Knock on the door, don't want to open the door, pretend to be not around
- Decided to make police report at the nearest police station because these people are barbarians
- With the police report, we called the locksmith to break the lock. When the locksmith was breaking the lock, suddenly the tenant appeared and open the wooden door from inside. Attitude was Ah Bengish. Started scolding us for trespassing. Hello mister, you did not pay us and you scold us. Couldnt talk sense into him.
- So at that instant, we change the broken padlock which we have bought and ran away. He was locked in the apartment. GAMBATE.
- That how the negiotation started. Barbarians need to be dealt barbaricly ( if there is such a word.)
- Furiously calling us on our handphone, to negiotate because they can't go out. It was 6 pm at that time.
- Finally accepted our terms.
- Unlocked his door at 12 midnight for him to find another unit. Promise to move out by Sunday.
- Our official duty became the gate-keeper. Open when they came back and open again when they want to go out.

22 Feb, Sunday.
- Waiting for their call to tell us that they are moving out. Sitting at Starbucks... checking my mail andapplying leave from my boss. Hoping for the best.

Operation Manga to be continued........

The Magic 18

2009-02-20T08:40:00.000-08:00

18... has always been an auspicious number for me.. 18 is when i met L, 18 is when i got my first job.. and 18 is also when the LA for my dad was FINALLY RELEASED a few days ago. I don't know why it is always been 18, but i sure GOD had a reason behind all of this. Only YOU know everything. Thank you for blessing me and answering my pray. I will surely remember the many 18s in my life.

WHATTHEF#&*ISNRJA?

2009-02-17T08:30:00.000-08:00

what is NRJA? from nrja on Vimeo.

This is by so far the coolest architecture firm i have seen. Young ( average age is 25 ), cute, experimental, vulgar... and with an attitude. That how architecture should be.. with an ATTITUDE... @www.nrja.lv...

Psalm 34-The Fear of the Lord is Good

2009-02-15T06:44:00.000-08:00

Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good!
Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!
Oh, fear the Lord, you his saints,
for those who fear him have no lack!
The young lions suffer want and hunger;
but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing.

How to Design

2009-02-14T08:03:00.000-08:00

Designing architecture is about asking yourself questions;it is about approaching, encircling and finding your own answer with the help of a teacher. Each time, afresh.

The strength of a good design lies in ourselves, in our faculty to perceive the world with sentiment and reason. A good architectural design has wisdom behind it. All of us had some experience of architecture long before we heard the word of 'architecture'. Our understanding of architecture is rooted in our earliest experience of it: our room, home, street,village or town and landscape. We experienced these early on, unconciously, and later we compared them with other landscapes, cities and houses gradually added. Our understanding of architecture is rooted in our childhood and youth, in our biography.

- Peter Zumthor

Currently Reading: Nine Museums Yoshio Taniguchi

2009-02-14T07:08:00.000-08:00

Yoshio Taniguchi's architecture is minimal in a Japanese way. Nothing much of him was known till he was selected to built MOMA New York. I went to one of his works in Tokyo last spring. Gallery of Horyuji Treasures. Instantly fell in love with it. There is something about wall, column, roof making a great space. The final element that makes a great space is light. There is no need for funky form if what it conveys is just a facade. Space has a special meaning in my heart and it will always be.. because it guides and it inspires us to something greater.

Ubersexual Series No.1

2009-02-11T07:32:00.000-08:00

Ubersexual Series No.1

Ichizawa Hanpu
Bag No. 61 Made in 1979
Postman Bag

This is my working bag. Functional and practical. Great color too for matching my clothes. I just like the form and the simplicity of it... reminiscence of the good old days when postman's had to carry the letters and deliver it to our homes by bicycle. It has sufficient space for my notes and stationery.

Ichizawa Hanpu is the original shop. Shinzaburo Hanpu is the brother's shop. Some family struggle after the father's death lead to 2 shops selling almost the same stuff side by side in Kyoto. I must say the younger brother, Shinzaburo ( the tote bag) is much more fashionable compared to his older brother. But i like the practicality bags of the older brother. Smart casual chic. That the style i would describe of the older brother. Shinzaburo - Contemporary provocative classic.

Metrosexual Series No.1

2009-02-11T07:05:00.000-08:00

Metrosexual Series No.1
Shinzaburo Ichizawa Hanpu
H-21 Logo Tote Bag

Proudly to say, I, the metrosexual is an owner of this wonderful designer bag. Bought it in Kyoto last year, coincidentally stumbled upon it during my bus ride to Kiyomizudera Temple. Saw it on the shopfront, instantly had to get the next day even if it was spending less time in Nara. It also comes with a lifetime guarantee. Each of the bags are handmade.So cool. Can only be found in Kyoto.... yeah. My leisure and Sunday bag.

Just a bit of background.
For more than 100 years, the best bags in Japan have been made by Kyoto's Ichizawa family. Sail-makers and religious-garment repairers since the mid 1800s, the family turned to making for trademens in 1905. By the early 1960s, their tough totes had gained a well-deserved reputation.

Quote of the Day

2009-02-11T06:43:00.000-08:00

" Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans"

- John Lennon

AM I: Metrosexual or Ubersexual?

2009-02-08T00:59:00.000-08:00

Recently, a friend SW tagged the Metrosexual label on me. Being relatively new in this area, decided to check it out for myself, if i was truly a Metrosexual... or Ubersexual.

Metrosexual
The newly popular media and marketing buzzword seems to mean different things to different people, but in general, a metrosexual :

is a modern, usually single man in touch with himself and his feminine side;

grooms and buffs his head and body, which he drapes in fashionable clothing both at work or before hitting an evening hotspot;

has discretionary income to stay up to date with the latest hairstyles, the newest threads, and the right shaped shoes;

confuses some guys when it comes to his sexuality;

makes these same guys jealous of his success with the ladies -- for many metros, to interact with women is to flirt;

impresses the women who enjoy his company with the details that make the man;

Among them:

his appreciation for literature, cinema, or other arts
his flair for cooking
his savoir faire in choosing the perfect wine and music
his eye for interior design

is a city boy or, if living a commute away from downtown, is still urbane, if not rightly urban;

enjoys reading men's magazines...

Ubersexual

Ubersexuals are the most attractive (not just physically), most dynamic, and most compelling men of their generations. They are confident, masculine, stylish, and committed to uncompromising quality in all areas of life."

Salzman adds, "He doesn't care what people think. He's not worried that people think he's gay. He knows he's straight, and that's all that matters."

He is, however, concerned with quality. Ubersexuals, co-author Ira Matathia says, strive for "excellence in everything. Fine wine, good cigars, understanding the finer things. That's sort of quintessentially it."

the differences between uber and metro

Passion

Ubersexuals are passionate about business, politics and global affairs.

Metrosexuals are passionate about themselves. Go ahead, just ask them!

The Sexes

Ubersexuals respect and like women, but prefer the company of men.

Metrosexuals consider women to be among their best (and only) friends.

Source of inspiration

Ubersexuals follow their experience and reason.

Metrosexuals follow Carson Kressley.

Priorities

Ubersexuals are concerned with the world around them.

Metrosexuals are concerned with their calorie intake.

Emotional level

Ubersexuals are emotionally available.

Metrosexuals are emotionally vacant.

Money

Ubersexuals invest their money in sound business strategies.

Metrosexuals invest their money in exfoliant.

Grooming

Ubersexuals shave daily, if need be.

Metrosexuals can tell you the exact time of their next Brazilian.

Obsessions

Ubersexuals are obsessed with quality and integrity.

Metrosexuals are obsessed with their buns.

So which category do i fall into. Let me contemplate and decide.

Currently Reading: In Praise of Shadows by Junichiro Tanizaki

2009-02-08T00:54:00.000-08:00

Psalm 27- God our Protector, Refuge,Deliverer

2009-02-08T00:34:00.000-08:00

The Lord is my light and salvation;
whom shall i fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life;
of whom shall i be afraid?
When evildoers assail me
to eat up my flesh,
my adversaries and foes,
it is they who stumble and fall
Though an army encamp against me,
my heart shall not fear;
though war arise against me,
yet i will be confident.
One thing have i asked of the Lord,
that I will seek after:
that I may dwell in the house of the Lord
all the days of my life,
to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord
and to inquire in his temple.
For he will hide me in his shelter
in the day of trouble;
he will conceal me under the
cover of his tent;
he will lift me high upon a rock.
And now my head shall be lifted up
above my enemies all around me,
and i will offer in his tent
sacrifices with shouts of joy;
I will sing and make melody to
the Lord.

In these economic uncertainty, there is always that fear of R... I will trust that God will provide, as he has declared in this Psalm. God is my Rock and my stronghold, whom shall i be afraid?

Feb Reading: Norwegian Wood by Haruki Murakami

2009-02-07T08:40:00.000-08:00

Be STILL and know you are GOD

2009-02-04T07:07:00.000-08:00

One of my fav.. It just inspires me everytime i hear it on my iPOD on my way to work... especially when waking up and going to work doesn't invigorate you anymore.
Be still and know that there is a GOD who knows all your anxiety and frustation.

The Distress Psalm

2009-02-04T06:06:00.000-08:00

There are very few times in my life that i will get all worked out and frustated. Angry and impatient towards my MUM. But tonight was such night... oh Lord i ask for your forgiveness.
And the issue is always the same.... My MUM always complains she can't get things done because so and so... and i will always need to solve it... I very tired from solving all these matters related to my father's will. Sometimes, i just wished i don't have such high responsibilities.. because of added stress that i think is not necessary at this very moment. I am the only Child..suppose to be the pampered one.. but nope, i am taking on the burden as the one in charge of everything that was in my Dad's name. I just want a normal life.. but from my childhood, i knew my life would not be normal. I tried to run from this responsibilities and problems.. but responsibilities has its ways of pursuing you.

i know my MUM sacrifice a lot to raise me up... and i appreciate the hardships she gone through.. and i am the only one who hears her. I want to be supportive.. but yet i failed tonight. The frustation just got into me.

Somehow, during quiet time, Psalm 25 spoke to me in the midst of this tense and uneasiness:

Psalm 25:16-22
Turn to me and be gracious to me,
for i am lonely and afflicted.
The troubles of my heart are enlarged;
bring me out of my distresses.
Consider my affliction and my trouble,
and forgive all my sins.
Consider how many are my foes,
and with what violent hatred they hate me.
Oh guard my soul, and deliver me!
Let me not be put to shame,
for i take refuge in you.
May integrity and uprightness
preserve me,
for i wait for you.
Redeem Israel, O God,
out of all his troubles.

AMEN

The Southern Ridges

2009-02-02T05:34:00.000-08:00

Went to the Southern Ridges trail last Sat... a really beautiful place to relaz and chill out. I would say Singapore really know how to exploit its nature to the fullness despite its flatness. Even this small stretch of hills can be turned into a tourist attraction.
Obviously, i was there for the Architecture .... but had a good time chilling out.

The MUJI Calendar Screensaver-2009

2009-01-31T23:04:00.000-08:00

Downloaded this very cool screensaver from MUJI. Its called PLAY MUJI. A Clock cum calender cum explanation of one MUJI product every day. Comes with a built in BGM songs from MUJI. pretty cool.

I like the video that shows how each MUJI product work every day.The video has no sounds just action.

Its amazing how through these simple things, MUJI can reach a consumer like me who doesn't understand Japanese.

Psalm 23 - The Promises of God

2009-01-30T08:34:00.000-08:00

Was doing my Daily Devotion.. and once again, Psalm 23 appeared again, and spoke to me when i needed it.It encourages me as i walk in these journey of faith.

The Lord is my Shepherd;
I shall not want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters
He restores my soul.
He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name sake.
Eventhough i walk through the valley of the shadow of death.
I will fear no evil, for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies;
you anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and mercy
shall follow me
all the days of my life,
and i shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

This video was shown to me by L last year. Everytime i read this Psalm, it will remind me about this girl.When i have a kid, i will definitely make my kid memorize this beautiful PSALM ....
It is a beautiful PSALM because it reminds us that GOD WILL PROVIDE BECAUSE OF WHAT HE PROMISES... BECAUSE GOD IS THE JEHOVAH JIREH and THE JEHOVAH ROHI

Manifesto for Architecture (2003)

2009-01-29T06:33:00.000-08:00

Wrote this after my first year in architecture.. wrote it after i watch Jerry Maguire.. didn't know why. The movies touched me in the way Jerry needed to find his purpose in life after being so successful and losing everything overnight.
Had my own personal crisis in my life as well at that time.
So undertook to write my purpose in architecture...

6 years on.. i think these humble words are still relevant. Reading it inspires me once again.

Manifesto for Architecture
The reason why I want to do architecture because I realized that architecture gives me the satisfaction that I really want that I cannot get in other career or profession.

Architecture is not about the buildings and great houses and museum. Architecture is about life. They way you live life. It questioned your existence and the need for a purpose in living. It is a study of our everyday life. The way your live and see life is expressed in the way your do architecture. The way your perceive life is expressed in your architecture. Your philosophy, your dislike, your biases and your feelings are all expressed in the architecture itself. It is like creating and nurturing a baby. It is your own creation. How bad and how good the architecture is a reflection of your personality and your traits. It reveals you. It communicates to people your feelings and most importantly who you really are. It speaks to people and most importantly, the architecture you are doing must speak to you. It will tell you what should be done, and what is good and what is bad. Only then can your produce great architecture.

Great architecture is not produced overnight. Great architecture is a result of the constant communication between the building and the architect himself. It takes years to cultivate this and learn it. One needs to be patient and not give up. It is this constant perseverance and passion to search for it that will ultimately make it reveal itself.

Architecture is very personnel and intimate. There are no right and wrong answers. There are only good and poor solutions.

Architecture needs to be lived out. As one of my tutor famous phrases says, to be in the practice of Architecture is to LIVE, EAT AND BREATH ARCHITECTURE.

Architecture is very much a study of human behaviour patterns. Thus, to be able to really truly understand the practice of architecture, one must first understand ourselves. Only then, will we be able to understand other people and to create spaces and architecture for the people.

I came to realize that architecture is not about fame, statues and power, though it is one of the rewards one can get in architecture. Architecture is about humility, the search for one personnel being and destiny. It is only through this humility that we are able understand people and to see the needs in people.

Architects are not GOD, and they can never replace GOD. As mentioned in the Bible, in Mark 13: 2. “ Jesus answered, “ You see these great buildings? Not a single stone here will be left in its place; every one of them will be thrown down.”. GOD will always be there.

In conclusion, Architecture is about yourself. Hence, just be yourself.

The Urban Crisis:Being Lonely vs Aloneness

2009-01-27T06:41:00.000-08:00

The long weekends during the Chinese New Year has presented a great time for me to reflect upon the state of my quarter life in this very fragile earth.

One of the issue that has probably engulfed me is the issue of loneliness. and i could wonder how could i be lonely in this very busy urban Singapore...
One could wonder why besides AIDS, heart attack and cancer.. Loneliness is the biggest killer...of our emotional well-being.

MSN, FACEBOOK and BLOGS, MOBILE... so connected are we in these days, but yet the emptiness that we feel is getting deeper.

We are LOST when our TIME is not filled. Our MINDS wonder when we are not FEED.Our HEARTS are uneasy when there is no ONE.

The answer to loneliness is SOLITUDE...as what God has reveal in his own special way.

As Pas Ed has shared:
Loneliness is a symptom of the cancer of the soul. being alone is ironically a cure in itself for that very cancer because being alone cultivates being aware.
Solitude cultivates that awareness and awareness is the birth of maturity.

Thus, to find solitude, we need to make time to create a space in our inner lives to touch base with ourselves and find a fresh encounter with God.A refreshing space of silence into which God speaks.

In Pursuit of Godliness

2009-01-17T06:40:00.000-08:00

This is the starting week of my Intentional Discipleship Training at my church.
A 2 year course which demands commitment... but mostly importantly to be moulded and shaped by God.
The training involves:
1. Weekly attendance at training on Fridays.. latecomers not allowed.
2. Involvement in Dawn Prayer and Day of Prayer.
3. Doing journaling and reading the Bible every day.

Was quite hesitant initially but somehow.. got that nudge from God... to surrender and have faith in Him.. because only God alone can save me.

I have been very blessed to have like-minded men in my Discipleship Group (DG) that i am able to relate to.... each and every one in their personal journey and walk with God.

i guess each crisis has its own lesson that God wants to teach us..
Some how or another, God has brought me through divine appointment, people that i am able to share my life with.. i was particulary touched by this SMS from Alvin:
Yo... Mr.D. I'm sure God has met with you tonight in a personal way even as we come before to seek HIM. The Lord giveth and He takenth away.Blessed be the name of the Lord.Let's look to the Creator rather than hold on to the blessings he's placed in our lives and we'll give thanks to the Father not for His gifts but for Him in our lives.

Amen

il Mare -Time Transcending Love

2009-01-13T07:23:00.000-08:00

Re-watch il Mare last Saturday
il Mare will always be my favourite K-movie show... one of the reasons is because the lead actor is an architect... and guess what he designed a house for his true love... so sweet...
Will i ever do that?
Beside cinematography and good script and flawless acting, il Mare is really a feel good romantic story.
I especially like the the house called il-Mare .. my dream home. At the threshold of land and sea, ground and sky...
I am inspired by the script... The director really potray the architect very well...
I feel a part of me really feel like him... don't know why.

Another thing...i dont know why i am a sucker for these kind of time-transcending movies.
Another of my Hollywood fav movies is Fahrenhiet..don't know why

MUJI- Perfect Horizon Series 2003

2009-01-06T05:04:00.000-08:00

Some of the most remarkable thing about MUJI ads is the fact that it captures the essence of life.

This is one of the several images in the book. Was taken in the North Pole... The clouds and the snow just look ..... i dont know what to say... divine.

For 2003, MUJI decided to publish these series of ads called the Perfect Horizons Series which is based on the concept that if a person suddenly appears on the horizon, there is nothing there except the human and the surrounding environment, but those are the only important elements that matter.

SIMPLY MUJI -The Nothingness

2009-01-06T04:37:00.000-08:00

Just to share some of the images from the MUJI book that i bought... I never could explain why i like MUJI...
Perhaps these are the reasons:
-"From nothing to everything, from everything to nothing"
Ouyang Yingfei . Design Critic

-"It is the Most Universal Japanese Idea"
Shigeru Ban. Architect

- " Each MUJI product entails a necessary consequences that
has been discovered"
Naoto Fukasawa. Product Designer

- " As a contribution to our modern life, MUJI advocates the use of those qualities that are integral to Japanese aesthetics: being Essential, Minimal and Anonymous
Kazuko Koike. Creative Director

- " MUJI is an enormously large, empty vessel that accepts the sensitivities of anyone and everyone"
Kenya Hara. Graphic Designer

Finally ... need to include my 2-cents worth
" MUJI is nothing and says nothing, but the nothingness says everything that is essential in life"
Daniel Chua. Wanderer

Now Truly Everyone can Fly

2009-01-03T19:49:00.000-08:00

Waiting to kill time at the airport.....
With WiFi and my lappy... the wait isn't that bad.
The opening up of the KL-SIN route has really made my life easier... going back home whenever i feel like it.
Just a click of the mouse and i'm on my way back home and back to Singapore.
With 5 flights daily ... home and the world is never too far away... provided you have the cash
I would have never imagined myself taking the airplane so frequently.
I remembered my first flight... was like when i was 12 years old... when i had to flew back to KL from Kota Bahru after my grandfather funeral on an old Boeing MAS flight which is still probably still operation.
The excitement and anticipation to board the flight... and still remembered feeling the first time the pressure on my ear....
How time flies....
Now truly everyone can fly....

ON MURAKAMI and MISHIMA

2008-12-30T05:57:00.001-08:00

There were many reasons why i started with Murakami.... perhaps the similarities and also the novelty with Mishima.

Was introduced to Mishima by Bobby ( my thesis tutor)... went to Japan. got hold of Mishima short stories on PATRIOTISM... was really impressed. This guy really had substance...

Mishima was a romantic... but Murakami... I just let New York Times do the talking

Haruki Murakami resembles Mishima mainly by virtue of being Japanese, and after that the affinities get pretty tenuous. Mishima was one of literature's great romantics, a tragedian with a heroic sensibility, an intellectual, an esthete, a man steeped in Western letters who toward the end of his life became a militant Japanese nationalist.

Even when he's writing about relatively fantastic subjects, like spirit possession in sheep, Haruki Murakami's sensibility is that, I think, of a skeptical realist. His narrator is inevitably Everyman, contemporary Tokyo edition, a kind of thirtyish urban male in a low-key white-collar job, like advertising or public relations, a somewhat passive fellow who doesn't expect much out of life and who takes what comes to him with jaded equanimity.

His motto might be "No big deal." Like most Japanese, the typical Murakami protagonist believes himself to be a man of the middle, the product of, to quote from Mr. Murakami's novel "Norwegian Wood," "a regular workaday family, not especially rich, not especially poor. A real run-of-the-mill house, small yard, Toyota Corolla."

Now that probably me... at this moment.. the product of......

IN SEARCH OF JAPANESENESS

2008-12-30T05:52:00.000-08:00

NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS

2008-12-30T05:06:00.000-08:00

What a tumilicious year 2008 it has been.. time for the resolutions again.
2009....
A NEW YEAR... A NEW BLOG.... A NEW ADVENTURE

These are MY 2009 NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS
1. TO LOVE GOD VERY VERY MUCH
2. TO LEARN HOW TO COOK AND EAT HEALTH
3. TO OWN MY OWN PLACE.. PREFERABLY A CONDO
4. TO LEARN JAPANESE.. AND UNDERSTAND ITS CULTURE
5. TO WEAR CONTACTS AND IMPROVE MY FACE AND DRESSING
6. TO LOSE WEIGHT TILL 67 KG