OUGD504 - Concept considerations

Concept Considerations Mindmap

From the three main initial ideas it has been decided that the focus around the geographical aspect of the location of the places is the strongest idea. The expansion idea, as discussed with Serge and after further thought would prove very difficult to do as there are not the relevant maps that would be needed for the idea. The suggestion of imaginary instead could have been a possibility however there is also not enough early imaginary available to use. The concept using the architectural forms seemed too obvious and would possibily become quite troublesome as some places do not have as recognisable or as interesting forms as other buildings within the city. Also if there are places within places e.g. activities within shopping malls, then the place would not have a shape to work with.

The geographical focus is the most original idea and is specific to the content that has been provided. The use of the two lines will provide a structure to the book from which to expand on, whilst also creating a narrative, allowing readers to journey along each of these routes. The concept will be minimalist, with an emphasis on the photographic element which will create a contemporary looking design that is visually easy to understand, making it practical as a travel guide and for families.

The concept to be taken forward revolves around the geographical area of Dubai, more specifically the beach line and road line in which all the activities etc are located on and around. The concept will use these two lines as the focus of the whole design and take the reader on a journey along both these routes. The lines will be scaled up proportionally to each other so that the lines flow over multiple pages, allowing different activities to be shown on different pages.

Key ideas, information and thoughts that could influence the concept:

The Road 

- Also known as 'The Strip'. Could the imagery be in landscape format or made into strips or could the grid systems be created horizontally within the design?
- Can the line for the road be simplified, rather than follow the actual form of the existing road. Can it be simplified to become more graphic? Perhaps by representing the lanes of the road through singular lines. Inspiration from map notation could be useful.

The Beach

- The beach could be represented with a gradient so it fades creating the idea that its fading into the sea.
- Tearing strips of paper creates a rugged edge similar to that of a beach. Could this be experimented with?
- Can the beach be simplified into simple shapes like the road?

Contrasting landscapes

- Urban vs Desert
Sand vs Metal / Glass
Rough vs Smooth
Can these different landscapes be reflected through stock choices by using textured or smooth papers?

Journey / Narrative

- Places within Dubai have no post codes, so to send mail there has to be a description or diagram in order to send something to someone. Could this narrative explain where each of the activities are?
- Arabic is the main language. When written this is traditionally done in a calligraphic style. Can this be used within the design to reflect tradition, perhaps to create the lines?
- Poetry is widely written in Dubai to describe aspects of life. Could the text or content reflect this in some way?

Layout within the city

- Both the roads run parallel to one another. Can the format play on this or the grid systems emphasise this concept?
- The city is broken into sectors such as Downtown Dubai and Jemeriah. Can the sectors or roads within the city create a grid system for the design?