Intercultural Design - Final Compilation
03.02.2025 - 24.03.2025
Chan Zhi-Ren Zenndan / 0369069
Design Principles / Bachelor of Design (Honours) in Creative Media / Taylor's University
Final Compilation
1. Instructions
Document 1.0.1 Module Information Booklet (03/02/2025).
2. Task 1 Proposal
Our chosen general theme for "Everyday Design" focuses on Kopitiam aesthetics in Malaysia and how their design reflects cultural traditions and social interactions. We’re looking at how elements like furniture, layout, and design patterns preserve heritage while adapting to modern trends. Kopitiams aren’t just places to eat; they unite people, creating a space where different generations connect. Through this project, we aim to explore their cultural significance and role in everyday life.
Document 2.0.1 Task 1 Proposal (20/03/2025).
3. Task 2 Field Study
For our data collection, we visited Pasar Seni as a group to observe and document traditional furniture, such as teacups and plates, that reflect the aesthetics of Kopitiams. To expand our research, we explored another similar location to further analyze these design elements. Following this, we visited a Kopitiam, where we interviewed the owner about the establishment’s history, his personal connection to it, how he came into his role, and his thoughts on its overall design.
We also put together a survey with 10 questions to understand people’s experiences in Kopitiams and whether the design plays a role in their visits. One of the key questions asked how much Kopitiams should adapt to modern trends, using a scale to measure public opinion. We also asked people to share their most cherished Kopitiam memories, which is an important part of our project as it helps us understand the emotional and cultural connections people have with these spaces.Document 3.0.1 Task 2 Field Study (20/03/2025).
4. Task 3 Final Project & Portfolio
For our final project, we’re creating a documentary-style TikTok series exploring the Kopitiam Aesthetic. We’ll be using the interviews we did during our data collection phase, along with new interviews with kopitiam customers, to share stories about what makes these spaces special. We asked customers about their experiences and their most cherished moments in a kopitiam to capture the emotional connection people have with these places. To bring everything together, we visited a traditional kopitiam that had all the design elements we were looking for and made it the base for our main video. The goal is to educate people on how kopitiams have shaped local culture while also looking at how they’re adapting to modern times.
Document 4.0.1 Final Project (24/03/2025).
Clicking here will also bring you to our TikTok page.
5. Group Reflection
We chose kopitiam culture as our topic. Initially, we were confused about how to approach it for Task 1 because the topic felt broad and vague. We struggled to break it down and find a clear direction, but with the feedback from Ms. Anis, we managed to narrow down our focus. Through this task, we took a deep dive into how kopitiam aesthetics shape cultural identity, social interactions and nostalgic connections. Before this, we had only viewed kopitiams at surface level, as places to dine in. However, after our research, we began to understand their deeper cultural significance.
We conducted field studies for Task 2 by visiting homeware stores and kopitiams to observe and document our findings. One of the highlights was exploring Pasar Seni, where we walked around, relaxed at kopitiams and immersed ourselves in the environment. Visiting the homeware store was particularly eye opening as we saw the various dining wares used in kopitiams which deepened our appreciation for their design elements. However, we faced challenges in coordinating our schedules for the field study as our group consisted of students from different courses. We solved this by planning and discussing our schedules in advance to ensure a successful trip. Another challenge was researching about kopitiam culture, as it is not widely documented online. This motivated us to further study the topic and highlight the importance of kopitiams in our local culture.
Finally, for Task 3, we brought all our research and observations to life through our TikTok page, kopiDIAM. Creating this platform was a meaningful way to showcase the kopitiam aesthetic while also highlighting its cultural significance. Through our videos, we captured the essence of kopitiam life, from the clinking and clattering of coffee cups and bowls to the lively conversations heard in these spaces. Interviewing kopitiam owners, hawkers and customers gave us valuable insights into their experiences and perspectives which deepen our understanding of kopitiam culture. This project was a special opportunity to explore how kopitiams remain relevant in today's modern world.
As a group, we truly enjoyed every step of this journey, from researching and filming to editing and sharing our content on kopiDIAM. It was rewarding to see our efforts come together creatively and engagingly despite the challenges we faced. This experience not only improved our teamwork and communication skills but also strengthened our appreciation for local traditions. We hope our project encourages more people to recognise the importance of preserving kopitiam culture for future generations.
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