WHAT IS THE ACTUAL ROLE OF ARCHITECTS? EXPLORE THE ANSWERS IN THE DOCUMENTATION OF SUFFIAN SHAHABUDDIN, THE ARCHITECT WHO FOUNDED THE 6IX DESIGN OFFICE, WHICH NAVIGATES UNCERTAINTIES AND AMBIGUITIES
TEXT: SURAWIT BOONJOO
PHOTO: KETSIREE WONGWAN
(For Thai, press here)
6IX APPEAL: To Read Between the Sheets
Suffian Shahabuddin, 6IX Design Office
Published by Suburbia Projects, 2023
Hardcover
12 x 21 cm
122 pages
Editor: Dano Chow
Designer: Aiman Salim, 6IX Design Office
ISBN 978-967-25859-6-1
“Architecture is an idea, one that begins with a spark of inspiration or even naivety, before developing and eventually manifesting in the form of a concept. But what and where is the limit for those who choose to stay within the lines of architecture?” This excerpt from the introduction to the book ‘6IX APPEAL,’ which chronicles the story of Suffian Shahabuddin, the architect-founder of 6IX Design Office, reflects on his experiences transitioning from being an architect in Melbourne to facing numerous challenges after establishing his company in Malaysia. Despite its brief length, the book delves into the past years of Shahabuddin’s architectural career, as he questioned whether he could transcend the confines of traditional architecture and, if so, how.
Shahabuddin’s personal and professional journey serves as the catalyst for deep contemplation and exploration. This book beckons readers to navigate through the objectives and profound impacts of architecture, with Shahabuddin’s diverse narratives serving as illuminating case studies. By posing inquiries such as ‘what truly constitutes ‘going beyond’ architectural practice?’ or ‘how can architects transcend their role as mere building designers to become masterful storytellers, crafting immersive human experiences?,’ the book invites readers to delve into and ponder the immense potential and influence of architecture in shaping our world, encouraging them to engage with and think about these questions.
Shahabuddin eloquently captures the complexity and challenges that architects encounter today. He candidly discusses the realities of meeting client expectations, budget constraints, and the ever-changing urban landscape. Moreover, he sheds light on the importance of cultural context and the necessity of designing spaces that resonate with the communities they serve.
‘6IX APPEAL’ strives to be more than just a book about architecture with its intended role as the initiator of dialogues, inviting readers to participate in discussions surrounding objectives, impacts, and the intricacies of the built environment. By encouraging readers to ‘Read Between the Sheets,’ the book helps one understand and appreciate the intertwined narratives that are integral parts of the built structures surrounding us. It challenges readers to look beyond the facades of buildings and admire the layers of thoughts, intentions, and creativity embedded in the works of architects like Shahabuddin and many others.
This book feels like a journey—a documentation of Shahabuddin’s life and work. It’s imbued with uncertainties and ambiguities. Whether it’s between Melbourne and Malaysia, academia and profession, aspirations and realities, or seriousness and enjoyment, ‘6IX APPEAL’ presents a story with indefinite chapters waiting to be unfolded. There is an interesting part of the book’s preface in which Iqbal Halim writes that as the story of 6IX comes to a conclusion, one cannot help but wonder: will it reach the level achieved by Alejandro Aravena of Elemental? No one knows, and that’s what’s left for readers to speculate and contemplate on their own.