I would like to thank my supervisor, Dr. Oliver Diessel, for his unwavering support in this project. His supervision was exemplary, he made the entire experience of getting a PhD rich and full, and he encouraged me to think critically in ways I would not have previously imagined. I would also like to thank my co-supervisor Prof. Sri Parameswaran for his excellent insights. I would like to thank my wife, Molly Hu, for all her support and understanding throughout the pursuit of my degree, especially at the most critical moments. I would also like to thank my mother who encouraged me to pursue my PhD and supported me throughout. I would like to thank all of my fellow PhD students on the 5th floor in the Architecture Group, especially Jorgen Peddersen, who, not only being the best friend one might have, also encouraged me to think. The rest of my fellow students Jeremy Chan, Krutartha Patel, Anjelo Ambrose, Carol He, Michael Chong all made my research experience in UNSW Sydney the best anyone could have. Last but not least I would like to thank the Australian Government for the Australian Postgraduate