STUDIO AIR
2016 SEMSTER 1
RAN TAO ID: 668728 Tutorial Group: T 10 Tutor: Caitlyn Parry
Content Part A A.1 Design Futuring A.2 Design Computation A.3 Composition/Generation A.4 Conclusion A.5 Learning Outcomes A.6 Appendix-Algorithmic Sketches
Self - Introduction
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My name is Ran Tao, you can call me Ran which represents happiness in Chinese. I am a third year architecture student who born and raised in China. This is my first time to study abroad. The issues on language speaking are the most disturbing obstruction during the study period. I love traveling and photographing the architecture and the landscape of different cities. These are the symbols that record the history and culture of the city. I believed that architecture is similar to the tale which also includes the beginning, climax and ending. That requires visitors to experience them at first, after that gradually achieve deep reflection for the city. My first time to touch on digital design was in the year one when I took the Visualising Environments. I learned about the basic knowledge of Rhino, CAD and Indesign that I can only use them to do some simple design. During year two, I almost did hand drawing and physical model making in Earth and Water studio that result in my digital design skill generally forgotten. I felt that I can come up with new and further designing ideas only by making physical models. During the making and drawing process, models could bring me the real reception and experience. Furthermore, I really enjoy the progress that the buildings were made step by step. The algorithmic modelling is interested to me, but it is also a challenge for me. I am eager to learn grasshopper and rhino to make my design more elegant and parametric and create more possibilities on design. Nothing is impossible, even if I did not know anything about the digital skill. I would put enough effort on the learning of grasshopper as soon as possible. Wishing my computational skills would be developed and boosted when finish the Studio Air.
A.1. Design Futuring
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n current years, belonging with the rapid development on economy, technology and society, the earth is trapped in an unprecedented challenge. Human beings keep consuming the limited resources and destroy the environment which caused the damage on the natural environment and the unstainable development, such as global warming and water pollution.
Therefore, the importance of design was increased. Humans cannot wait for the chance to change the condition. Design is the only solution to the current urgently problem. 1Design futuring requires designers to create the most suitable things which beyond function and materials to promote against unsustainability in the future.
1 Tony Fry.Design Futuring: Sustainability, Ethics and New Pratice (Oxford), p.4.
The Spanish Pavilion for the Expo 2010 EMBT
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he pavilion was designed by the architectural firm EMBT and completed with MC2 Structural Engineers which located in the Shanghai Expo. The structure and materials utilized in the pavilion were amazing and unpredictable. The project attempted to use the universal language of material to connect the relationship between the Eastern and Western countries. The wicker, a natural material both traditional in Spain and China is used for covering the facade which make the pavilion liked a basket. The antiquated method to weave these wickers brings the historical elements into the future designing which lead to a new and unique weaving structure. The reference and improvement of historical elements also promotes the possibilities on designing.
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he interior structure is made of steel and concrete. The highly irregular curved form is good at supporting loads which have ideal performance on deformation and seismic behaviour. The really complex form was also inspired by the traditional structural form. Designers used computation to extend the possibility of the traditional curve. By using the digital skills and communicate several times with structural engineers the free form of the pavilion was achieved. The building was destroyed now due to several reasons, but its concept and idea are good sources for learning. As the first weaving architecture, the usage of natural materials reflects the relationships between human and nature. Human beings’ future depends on the nature which is a sign to remainder people to pay attention to the natural environment. It is worthy to implementing. The concept on innovate radical things into traditional ideas is also can be utilize. I believed that designers should not abandon historical items. We should find an open minded approach to explore the potential advantages of design.
House R128 Werner Sobek
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he house was designed by Werner Sobek which located in Stuttgart, Germany. The facade of the house was fully glazed which it was the first time to make the idea of transparency come true. It advanced the transparency into further development and practice. The glazed facade enlarges the ventilation, sunlight and sight views for the residents which provide different spatial experience inside and outside the building. The closer relationships between nature and human brought nature and architecture come together. That was the first building in which on the same sight line through all the storeys.
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he house was designed by Werner Sobek which located in Stuttgart, Germany. The facade of the house was fully glazed which it was the first time to make the idea of transparency come true. It advanced the transparency into further development and practice. The glazed facade enlarges the ventilation, sunlight and sight views for the residents which provide different spatial experience inside and outside the building. The closer relationships between nature and human brought nature and architecture come together. That was the first building in which on the same sight line through all the storeys.
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really like this design which not only achieve the sustainability, but also use the advanced technology in design as well. The design of the house supposed to tell other architects, sustainability will lead fundamental change in the design. Putting sustainability in design is the compulsory choice for architects. o make ecology breath takingly attractive and exciting.
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A.2. Design Computation
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n recent years, the rapid development of technology on computation can be found everywhere for solving problems in the world which brings variety of advantages. In particularly, the utilization in architectural design promotes tremendous changes and also provides more opportunities for designers to encourage them to fake creativity (reference from the lecture)1.
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Lecture for week 2
Different from computerization, computation is a practice of architecture which is the form of calculation which follows the well-defined model1. The digital will provide algorithmic formulation to help us design architectural spaces. Although, some scholars considered that we should keep the older design methods and processes. However, an increasing number of precedents showed that the benefits of computation are more than the disadvantages. The application of computation affects the design process and methods particularly.
1 Oxman. Theories of the Digital in Architecture,p.1
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efore the development of technology, the design process experienced special changes over fifty years. The design became more concentrate on the logic of the algorithm. Computers can save all the changes and tracks done by architects, they can provide all the information to assist designers. 1Under these function, architects can develop variety of new and better solutions to fit problems. On the one hand, design is the process to change current situation to new situation which should reflect better and suitable solution. In the past, the methods were limited by the current technology and strict rules which focus on the model and drawings. Computers can also make the report for designers to compare and analyse the distinction between solutions and former design2. On the other hand, the designer must have the alibility of predict and evaluate the expected performance and emerge solutions along the criteria established by goals.1 The computation method will help to give the results quickly and can provide the unpredicted models for designers. In addition, computation also adds another design method for architects. It supplies the searching function which contains finding, developing candidate solutions, and evaluating them against goals. That makes the design much better and close to the desirable goal. 1
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Kalay .Architectures New Media,p.13
Kalay .Architectures New Media,p.1 Kalay .Architectures New Media,p.7
The application of computation also changes the relationship between architectural design and engineering. 1Due to the designing process communication, computation provides more opportunities for architects, structural engineers and more people to involve in the design process. It has established a collaborative design relationship between architect and engineer during design process which stimulates the energy and structural calculation. Along with the development of parametric design, a tectonic system has provided a powerful paradigm for material design in architecture as well as for the performative design of material system. This development makes material design be added to the past architectural design which enables architects to get involve in the design and usage of material. In another word, the design of material supplies more opportunities to achieved more and updated forms of buildings. Finally, I found that it is significant to have the ability of to frame the problem in a manner when use the computation and also important to be able to predict how and where computers can be useful in architectural design. I believed that computation make designers to break the limitation on presenting the design. They can achieve more complex and abstract design by using high level software.
1 Oxman. Theories of the Digital in Architecture,p.5
The Kuwait International Airport Foster +Partners
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he Kuwait International Airport which also designed by Foster+Partners which reflects the application of geometrical computations. The whole shape of the airport utilizes the geometry of triangle. The symmetry of the shape can ensure the airport can provide enough capacity for users and airlines. The each part of the triangle was reached by the triple rotational symmetry around the origin. The usage of the digital tool make the symmetric representation becomes clearer, more compact and less prone to errors.
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he huge roof covered the triangle which not only at the function of keep the rain off, but also can keep out the direct irradiation of the sunlight. The material on the roof also uses the advanced technology, which represents the future tendency of the development of the architecture, achieving the balance between nature and human beings. In this design, the innovations does computation present is that architects become possible to incorporate the topological considerations of a design. This new digital tool leads to the simple and convenient method that exploits symmetry and geometry opens up new design capabilities.
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he three parts of the airport in the parametric design provides more and new opportunities for the future development of the airport. Architects can use the software to change the algorithm in order to achieve larger capacity or better solution of the current design. The computation application makes the design more flexible and has more possibilities for architects to search for the solutions.
The National Bank of Kuwait Headquarters Foster + Partners
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he National Bank of Kuwait Headquarters was designed by the Foster+Partners which is an environmentally responsive building under a really complex geometrical form. It designed by the development on parametric models by relate to the geometric relationships between other elements. The groups used high level software to produce parametric models and achieve variety of models quickly. These models provided different algorithmic data designers to compare and come up with more innovations and better solutions to achieve desirable situation. Peters presented that the process to applicate computation allows architects to extend and explore new ideas which increase the capability to solve problems. Under the usage of scripting, the designers wrote the environmental, functional and operational requirements into the program in order to get the rational shape of the building.
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ccording to the calculation for the solar, wind and acoustic analysis in the parametric software, the shape was almost decided. The vertical structural shading fins covered with the facade of eastern and western due to the local climate. The northern side was sealed off with glasses which provide sunlight and natural views. This concept of design considered the preceding architectural theory that try to bring design connect to the nature. The surrounding environment has significant influence on design. The computation provides more accurate information for designers to search for the better solution.
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he fins on the eastern and western facade are not only used as shading, but also the loads supporting elements in the building which consultant with the structural engineers. This is due to the reason that parametric models provided specific data and predictable problem. It created the collaborative relationships between architects and engineers. Engineers can easily create suitable structure according to the digital data rather drawings and models. he parametric model contains a full geometric description of the construction build-up of the structural elements, and embeds engineering input through linking to a data spreadsheet. The elements can be adjusted for further development.
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A.3. Composition/Generation
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long with the development and the utilization of the computation technology, the old or traditional design methods have experienced a huge alteration. Hand drawing and model making are gradually replaced by the digital modelling and algorithmic. The digital design provides more opportunities for designing, fabricating and also creates the new relationships between architects and structural engineers. It probably increase and extend the possibilities and capacity for achieving more complex models.
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he application of the digital modelling is the process that shifts the model making into digital modelling. Meanwhile, the method for achieving analysis drawings is converted to the algorithmic drawings. Both of methods have benefits and shortcomings as well. Since the time of Renaissance, the scaled drawings and models had been largely utilized. Drawings present designers’ concept clearly and vividly. They allowed architects can communicate with engineers and clients and supply a real feeling of natural environments which shows the experiment and test of design solution of the form and function at the same time1. However, drawings made by hands consume a plenty of time and there are always some inevitable mistakes. The computation is the solution to these problems. Designers can redo and modify the drawings or modellings in anytime for any part. Computation is redefining the practice of architecture, which already promoted the shift for architecture to digital and parametric technique as well as the shift from composition to generation.
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omputation can be used as the virtual drafting board which it is easier to edit, copy and increase the precision of drawings.1Computation empower designers to extend their capability and intelligence for innovations.
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t has the potential to supply the inspiration to architects and help them to make models which cannot be expected and forward before. Computation also provides more chance to explore in the design environments, ecosystem and economic spending, instead of coming out the physical models.
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n respond to the shift from composition to generation, computation becomes essential when designs need to be completed. Computation allows designers to extend their abilities to deal with highly complex situation, especially benefit to larger scaled projects. They not only require to experiment and test the design by using algorithmic to write program and change the parametric data, but also create new environments to explore designs.1 The shift just provides more possibilities for designers to explore.
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Brady Peters, Computation works: The building of Algorithmic Thought, The Building of Algorithmic Thought, 83, p13
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Brady Peters, Computation works: The building of Algorithmic Thought, The Building of Algorithmic Thought, 83, p10
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Brady Peters, Computation works: The building of Algorithmic Thought, The Building of Algorithmic Thought, 83, p10
Fondation Louis Vuitton Gehry Partners
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he parametric design is redefining the practice of architecture in the shift from composition to generation. In order to achieve best design outcomes, it should take a long period of time on designing, planning, constructing and structuring. Application of parametric design is the solution to overcome these difficulties. It can provide all information that is required during the design and construction process. For example, it can predict the architectural design results, presenting different possibilities by changing the data and sliders.
The Fondation Louis Vuitton designed by Gehry Partners developed the conceptual model to structural model throughout the parametric scripting which also use it to develop the fabricate and install all aspects. It not only the art, but of design and technology. The parametric methods brought the design to the nest level. The biggest problem designers met in the design process is the collaboration between engineers and architects. The team developed the design idea through digital software, tools that allowed the calculation of each panel on the model, and the control of joint distances between them which provides detail information for engineers and client to further achievement. A largescale prototype was constructed allowed the verification of the assembly of glass panels, and their effect in situation. Each iteration should be presented in specific structural model to find out the most suitable method. This project is the good example of application on technology in architecture.
Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center Foster + Partner
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han Shatyr is a giant transparent tent located in Astana which designed by the Foster+Partners. The team started built the conceptual model and develop the further forms by using the parametric tools. It is very efficient that the design team can quickly achieve generate design options for the cable net structure. The computation facilitate sthe parametric model to be used to develop and define the building form. The three-layer envelops is designed to shelter the enclosed accommodation from weather extremes to allow sunlight to throughout the interior. The parametric tools created several forms. The computer program allows architect to simulate the structural forces of the cable net structure and generate the different form options. It also use the 3D printing method. Printing out the models to present for the clients. The geometry of this structure was developed in parallel with the cable net structure. It was ultimately rationalized to a series of four concentric arcs that step up in elevation in a linear fashion. This allowed for simple site set out and construction strategy.
A.4. Conclusion
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ow to make the architecture become more sustainable which still reserve the importance of function and form is the most significant issue that require designers to solve in the future. Design is the process to frame the problem and find the solution to work it out. Along with the development of technology, computation became the significant method in design process, which provides more possibilities to solve problems and connect the context and building together. Architects could gradually understand the concepts of algorithmic, computation became a true method of design for architecture. In addition, computation makes the realization of design possible, computational approach and algorithmic thinking were push further by the development of digital technology. This new method extends the intellect of the designer and increases the capability to solve problems. Computation is redefining the practice of architecture which reacts to the shift from composition to generation.
Before I take studio air, I never used any digital software to achieve my design. I felt uncomfortable when I use software and even do not know where can start. This might result from the reason that I was not familiar with the application. Due to this reason, digital tools seemed like the barrier for me to extent the inspiration and increase the imagination. Therefore I prefer to do some sketches and make models which can bring me closely to attach to the design idea, even it quite consumes time.
When there were some mistakes, I required to redo the whole thing. Therefore, I am intended to combine computation and hand drawing approaches together in the future design process. Hand drawing can help me present my ideas directly and provides more inspiration. Computation will make my process more efficient which allow me explore more possibilities and increase the capability of creating more solutions to the complex problems. I believed that is the most suitable method for me to the future design. Along with the development of the technology, the algorithmic method will be promoted widely and the application of this technology will be developed as well. This almost depend on the effect from the largely usage of parametric design. An increasing number of architects will aware of the significant of computation. Stimulating the intelligence and helping achieve various solutions and changes. Architects can relatively intuitively adjust the variables through parametric design to achieve best state of projects
A.5. Learning outcomes
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uring the learning process for these three weeks, I felt excited but also difficult to utilize the parametric software. When I practiced on grasshopper, I gradually realized that parametric design is not only the tool or software for model making in order to save time. It on its potential to extends the possibilities and creates various solutions to the complex problems. Actually, the application of the software influences the thinking method, it changes my previous method that work on papers to reflect the design ideas. In addition, the parametric tool always brings surprise. I can use it to achieve unpredictable and unbelievable forms of design. It widens the range of my imagination from some aspects. I used to create some buildings in very regular and common form. When I put them in the grasshopper, the complex parametric tool can change the form into very abstract and radical shapes. The experience to improve the past work makes me realize the most significant advantage of using digital software. It increases the possibilities on changing the form or solution which still depend on the same ideas. Moreover, it presents the results that I cannot predict and cannot achieve by hand drawing and model making.
I would like to facilitate my design by applying digital tools in the design stages. Throughout the learning process, I found that it is necessary to improve digital silks which can help me to obtain better understanding of masters’ works and try to get the process how they achieve. In my opinion, parametric design will play an important role not only in the designing area, but also in construction and engineering area.
A.6. Appendix-Algorithmic Sketches
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his is my first time to touch with rhino and grasshopper. The different type of inputs and outputs for various commands almost make me crazy and dizzy. It quite difficult to achieve one outcome in a short period of time. I was shocked about adjusting different variables to look at the incredible and dynamic shape that I never expect. During the practice, I believe that computation is capable to empower the imagination and inspiration of the designer and provides more chance for them to alter models. These three sketches were done by the triangulation from the mesh es which are in simple form. I will development my skill from part B. I have done some research that links to the computational techniques from Part A precedents. I will also explore through the new technology on materials in order to broaden the design opportunities. Improving the render and rhino skills immediately. The first sketch is set of blocks that achieve by triangulating the meshed surface. In order to make the height distinction, I use sliders to alter the height of the inside and outside of the individual columns. Each column aims in different form, the height different make them like to concentrate in the middle of the whole structure. The last one reflects the usage of the quad tree in the mesh. I used orient to make the different squares to overlap with each other and arrange in the regular arrangement.
Reference List Fry, Tony (2008). Design Futuring: Sustainability, Ethics and New Practice (Oxford: Berg), pp. 1–16 Grand opening of Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center, Kazakhstan the world’s tallest tensile structure, http://www.fosterandpartners.com/projects/khanshatyr-entertainment-centre/ Julio Martínez Calzón,Carlos Castañón Jiménez(2010). ARCHITECTURE STRUCTURING THE SPANISH PAVILION, EXPO 2010, SHANGHAI,pp.52-59 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.(2013)Integrated Computational Design National Bank of Kuwait Headquarters, pp.34-35 John Wiley & Sons Ltd. (2013). Symmetry As Geometry Kuwait International Airport, PP.28-31 Kalay, Yehuda E. (2004). Architecture’s New Media: Principles, Theories, and Methods of Computer-Aided Design (Cambridge, MA: MIT Press), pp. 5-25 Oxman, Rivka and Robert Oxman, eds (2014). Theories of the Digital in Architecture (London; New York: Routledge), pp. 1–10 Peters, Brady. (2013) ‘Computation Works: The Building of Algorithmic Thought’, Architectural Design, 83, 2, pp. 08-15 Sobek, Werner. (2010) Radical sources of design engineer, pp.26-28
Part B. CRITERIA DESIGN
B.1.
Research Field
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or the part B the case study, these search field of patterning is chosen for my exploration. In particular, the commands for patterning which focus on perforating and transforming in a repetitive and predictable manner. Using different parametric to achieve different geometric structure, especially to achieve abstract facade and the structure. By using the grasshopper, I can create geometries which have their own fluidity, order and consistency characteristics are suitable for constructing an interactive space.
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n this part I would like to use pattern to explore the geometry. As geometry will be used as basis on the interpretation of architecture, I believe that its order and fluidity attribute could further link with a dynamic and well-ordered overview in our final design outcome. In addition, I also consider that give aesthetic manner alone to parametric design is not enough. Supported by Moussavi’s argument in the paper of the Function of Ornament, a good outcome of architecture is supposed have great integration the concept of sustainability which combines with functional and representational features.
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he approach in part B will be started from learning structural skyscraper explores the form of structural geodesics together with the installation of sustainable energy.
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s Moussavi mentioned that these internal orders that architecture gains an ability to perform relative to culture. It is necessary to consider urban setting and culture into design to provide a function as interactive living space. That is, the design outcome would be favourable not only in terms of its aesthetic beauty but also being an interactive living space to create the concept of sustainability.
Aqua Tower Studio Gang Architects
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he tower not only showed the features on the skyscrapers at that time, but also presented and highlighted the condition of the sculptural structure. Each level has different structure which creates the every level in the different geometric lines. The whole shape of the building seems more flexible and flowability. It emphasizes the usage of geometry and technology to create the strong impression on the appearance and structure. To highlight the design propose and the main idea of the architecture.
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rying to arrest visitors’ attention by using rich colours and well defined graphics. The design was inspired by the striated limestone along the edge of the lake. Moreover, this kind of sinuous shape is not just a mere formal gesture, but it is also a considerable strategy to extend the views and maximize solar shading. In the plan, the whole building is in the rational and common structure, true to the Mies legacy in the city. Aqua Tower is one of few tall buildings to create a community on its facade. Combining a hotel offices, rental apartments, condominiums, and parking, along with one of Chicago’s largest green roofs, Aqua facilitates strong connections between people and to the city.
During the design process, Independent parameters combine to create Aqua’s architecture which contains the contours, terraces, pools and columns. ‘Pools’ of high performance glass and ‘hills’ of the floor plate extensions are visible from adjacent towers. Aqua’s distinctive form is achieved by varying the floor slabs across the height the tower based on criteria such as views, sunlight, and use. Strategically sculpting the shape of each floor slab offers comfortable outdoor terraces, where neighbours can casually and comfortably intricate.
AU Office and Exhibition Space Archi Union Architects
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his old warehouse on Jungong Road, Shanghai was originally used to store fabrics. Abandoned and dilapidated, it has now been given a new function as an office and exhibition space. Located in a newly formed artists’ complex, the area consists of three identical warehouse spaces totalling 1,200 sqm. The central warehouse has been converted into an outdoor recreational space and entrance lobby serving the exhibition hall and the studio. The most interesting part is the wall which give a lot of idea on patterning. The external parametric wall of the warehouse encloses the building on three sides. Parametric processes have been used here to superimpose the contours and definition of silk undulating in the wind .The wall consists of concrete blocks, angled to create an interesting texture and varying amounts of light. Inside there are two meeting rooms and exhibition areas. The roof of this space has been left intact, simply renovated. Large windows run along both walls flooding daylight into the large open space. The different direction of each blocks on the external wall make the wall under the feeling of flowing and give a distinction on the hierarchy. This method make the wall more interesting, not only a vertical wall. It provide the life to the wall.
B.2. Case Study 1.0
Portrait Building Ashton Raggart McDougall
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he facade of the building is using the grasshopper skill for imagining and patterning. The image comes from a photograph of a sculpture of Barak by contemporary artist. The photography must be in black and white image . The direction and vertical thickness should be alternated by changing the bands of black and white. Then use the software to determine the measurement for the fabrication. The image is realised with white panels bolted onto black balcony slabs, These slabs stand out against the black building. According to the distance of the view, the face fades from view and increasingly. They are the effect of curved, carved balconies. The northern ans western facades are an interpretation of a topographic map. They also look a little like a heat map. The same colours feature in the lobbies. The portait is testament to the organic shapes, flowing clean lines and precision that can be achieved using composite building materials. The each facade can be achieved by pre fabrication.
Definition on the iterations
At first, I would like to make some changes on the parametric statistics on the U and V under the surface divide, however, it does not change a lot. Then I found that it might be interesting to add geometries on the ordinary facade which similar to the AU Office and Exhibition Space. To install geometry on the wall to make the structure more fluidity and three-dimensional. Therefore, I mainly focused on the change in this part as the diagrams showed above. All the changes are based on this part, but in different methods.
For this species, I just chang form of the expression on the I add the wavy slabs on the face of the original building. A I tried to find out the closet p on the surface. Then still inse amplitude to control the dom the movement of points. Disp ing these points into two diffe list according to the vectors. patterning these points into w shape.
ge the e image. surAt first, points ert the main of patcherent Finally, weave
In this definition, I mainly utilized the amplitude to control the points on each level of the facade. then use the line commend to insert the lines between these points. Finally to expression them in the pipe form. This change is focus on changing expression of shape of the image. The photo was expressed in the point style.
This change is quite simple but the results is quite impressive. Firstly, I tried to find out the grid on the surface. By swapping rows and columns on the surface to arrange these points follow with a data tree. Using remap numbers to control the density of the distribution of these points. Finally, connecting the gradient to the geometry to change the colous.
This change is similar to the last one above. creating the center boxed on the facade of the building, and changes the colors.
Species 1 creating the pipe surface around the original surface
change the U and V of the divided surface
change the U and V of the divided surface change the radiant of the pipe
Species 2 creating a series of interpolated curve in weave sharp through a set of points
change the U and V of the divided surface
change the U and V of the divided surface
Species 3 Change the insert diagrams
Species 4 Flip circles by swapping rows and columns+change the gradient of colors
change the count of U and V of the divided surface change the upper limit and lower limit of the gradient
change the count of U and V of the divided surface change the upper limit and lower limit of the gradient
Species 4 Creating boxes centered on the surface +change the gradient of colors
Selection Criteria and Outcomes
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rasshopper is able to create infinite possibilities for parametric design from one primary source. In this part , the given grasshopper definition I chose is the Portrait Building. I was trying to change its different parts into simple or more complicated form by changing existed parameters, replacing surface and adding new components in Grasshopper. The purpose of this approach is aimed to find more unexpected outcomes and possibilities. After experimenting and generating different species, I moved on to the selection criteria to pick four iterations from 30 species. Basically, these selections will be helpful or enable me to process into further exploration and possibilities. I believe that these four species that I would like to choose are able to be fabricated and to expressive into renewable presentation.
They also need to have aesthetic characteristic and elegant shape in order to attract visitors to come, Lastly, it is supposed to have further exploration. Such as the potential to have possibilities of further development. The first one I want to change the expression method for the photo that show on the facade of the building. I tried to bulge the image on the facade and emphasize the structure of the building. Curves, surface, points on the surface could be formed by base geometries and various parameters are the main focus to generate interesting outcomes. Therefore, for this species I docus on the different basic things will give me new interations. I believe that in order to achieve better and elegant structure, it is important to play around with different kinds of geometries.
This iteration is quite similar to the previous one . It also focus on the structure of the outside part of the building. Changing the image on the facade to achieve different effects. This iterations may be fabricated easier. The visual effect may be better than the original form.
The most amazing function that grasshopper have is iteration can be visually and smartly caculated in an accurate way. These two iterations reflect the control on the gradient of colors. Each part can have different colors by alternating the slider bar chart. These colors make the facade like the thermal mass diagram which can reflect the sustainable elements as well.
B.3. Case Study 2.0
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he Aqua Tower is the project that I chosed for the further development for my design proposal. This design gives me insight to figure out how to take consideration for material construction which combines with the much more complex structure of building. In this building, a series of contours defined by the outdoor terraces extend away from the face of the structure to provide views between neighbors which emphasize the modern development for the urban tower which should ensure enough natural sunlight and ventilation for the skyscrapers. These outdoor terraces gradually undulate over the height of the building. Because the shape of the terraces changes from floor to floor, the building presents a sculptural appearance to the city. Shaping of the terraces is further defined and formed by the criteria such as solar shading and dwelling type. The unique structure of the balconies create a seemingly organic and free motion across the tower’s facade unlike anything before seen in tall building design. The special design also consider the solar shading, views and to correspond to the units within. n addition, this building also reflect the combination between structure and material. The building composed of irregularly shaped concrete floor slabs which still keep the facade an undulating, sculptural quality. It use the parametric technology to combine the terrace, contour, pool and columns together to form the whole structure. Each part seems independent, but when put them together, it came up with undesirable result. ustainability is also an important factor which I learnt from this building. The special shape and hierarchical arrangement of the terraces extended the space of the solar shading, and other sustainable features such as the collection of rainwater and efficient energy lighting. It also bring the natural elements into the building, the green roof on top of the tower is the reflection. found that the design on terraces and the utilization on contour is really interesting. It not only in the elegant and abstract structure, but also possible to fabricate out. It even connect the sustainability to the design.
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B.3. Reverse Engineer
B.3. Technique: Development
Species 1 Change the input images
Species 2 Change the geometry of the whole structure
Species 3 Rotate the whole structure
Species 4 Connect all the points and present in line works
Species 4 cull pattern + create into curved surface
Species 5 divide surface into grids and use weaverbirds to hollow out the grids
Species 6 divide surface into series of triangles
Species 6 using flatten tree to loft a surface then using populate geometry to make boxes or other geometries on it
Species 7 Adding geometry in the structure
These three iterations are the most successful during the development process. They used weaverbirds, rotate and usage of the triangle panels to divide the whole structure and brep these points together. Except criteria from the brief, the selection criteria includes aesthetic appearance, potentional for future development, and fabrication possibilities in order to push this measure to its optimum standard. Problem needs to be tackled by producing candidate solutions for consideration and development in order to obtain the best result. She also proposed that criteria of depth, breath and priority need to be met when solution needs to be found out. Therefore, during the process of meeting these requirements, the outcomes can be moderated better including materiality, structural integrity and aesthetic appearance. These three interation from the reverse engineering project are focus on the dynamuc shape, ideal structural and further developed potential. This seriesof iterations were generated by focusing on the elegant structure of Aqua Tower. The dynamic thing of the thing of the first one is the change of is the skin. Using the weaverbird to hollow out the surface for the parametric facade. Some of them are void while some of them are solid. During this experiment, I found that different fluent skin can give me a different feeling. The second one is using the graph mapper. To twist the form of the whole building in order to achieve the fluidity structure gievs the sense of key characteristic of geometry. The third one is mainly focus on the structure of the building. The massive structure seems complex, I am not sure if it can be fabricated or not.
B.5. Technique: Prototypes
T
his the process that I tried to fabricate my design. For the inside tunnel is quite successful. It inspired from the rotated model from previous development process. I hollow out the center part of these squares and install them into different rotated angles. The visual effect gave a good geometrical sense. The whole appearance is elegant and the structure also reflects the parametric computational skills. But for the further development, it is significant to consider the stabilization of this structure. Because there are lack of the supporting elements to support this structure. Although the structure of tunnel is elegant, but the functionalism is quite difficult to realize. However for the exhibition wall, it missed the connection from the previous development. In order to emphasize the organic elements in the site, I wanted to use the shape of the plants’ cells to decorate the wall. The voronio provided good technique support to achieve this proposal.
Selection Criteria esthetic appearance o o o o potentional for future development o o possibity of fabirication o o o
B.6. Technique: Proposal Idea development and refinement Brief: This project is try to design a structure or an abstract geomeytry to provide a place for visitors to experience the organic farm from the exhibition on the cultivation method in close distance. The design not only focus on the function, but also enhance the site's features on organic elements- plants. The place should have a very impressive structure to stand out this element. And how to design this structure to provide more function not only the form Agenda: without disturbing the common usage of this site, to design a structure for vistors to have impressive experience on the site and try to hightlight the feature of the Ceres market. My design proposal mainly develop from the brief and agenda. In order to find out more opportunities and issues that can improve the deign proposal, I also did some research on the site. From the natural aspect., I found that the sunlight and wind in the center part of the park is quite better than other places. It is a good opportunity for plants to grow in this area. Therefore, putting the plants here will not effect the normal growth. Moreover, the center part is quite opened and it is full of soil on the ground, it is not suitable for the theme of the site. It should be more green plants to cover this area. From the physical aspect, I would like to find out the functions that provided by the site. It is an opportunity for my design what other function can be supplied for the users. From the movement of the visitors, I found that visitors seldom walke throug the area between the chook group and community gardens. This is quite waste the ideaology of the park. People always croweded in the organic grocery shop. Therefore, the location I chose here is trying to attract vistors' attention and enhance the theme of the park. It is also a good partition and transition to sperate the commerical buidling and natural farm.
B.6.1
Design process
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contour of the facade of the wall
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structure of the tunnel inspired by the terraces in the case study
+ irregular arrangement of plant boxes
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My design proposal is to design the vertical garden wall, in other words, it is a plant exhibition wall which combines a tunnel in the middle. It is aim to bring more natural and organic elements to the site and also stimulate visitors to the site and realize the important relationships between nature and humans. It will positioned in the centre opening space which beside the organic market. It tries to raise the awareness of sustainable energy. The plant boxes which hold the plants will install on the hollows in the wall irregularly. Except criteria from the brief, the selection criteria includes aesthetic appearance, potentional for future development, and fabrication possibilities in order to push this measure to its optimum standard. Problem needs to be tackled by producing candidate solutions for consideration and development in order to obtain the best result. She also proposed that criteria of depth, breath and priority need to be met when solution needs to be found out. Therefore, during the process of meeting these requirements, the outcomes can be moderated better including materiality, structural integrity and aesthetic appearance. These three interation from the reverse engineering project are focus on the dynamuc shape, ideal structural and further developed potential. This seriesof iterations were generated by focusing on the elegant structure of Aqua Tower. The dynamic thing of the thing of the first one is the change of is the skin. Using the weaverbird to hollow out the surface for the parametric facade. Some of them are void while some of them are solid. During this experiment, I found that different fluent skin can give me a different feeling. The second one is using the graph mapper. To twist the form of the whole building in order to achieve the fluidity structure gievs the sense of key characteristic of geometry. The third one is the random of the box.
B.6.2 Future Possibility Flattening the curves for each level by using the flatten tree. Then loft the curves to a bending surface. Using the popular geometry, to set up the points on the geometry. Finaly to put the box inside or on the surface of the geometry.
There was a misunderstanding on my design development. In my opinion, I should choose three different and success developed iterations to combine them into a new one. This purpose is probably wrong. The nest stage I will focus on the structure development on one of my successful iteration. According to the functionalism, trying to make the facade more abstract and parametric by utilize the patterning skills.
A
I T b m fo th M d m in m la
A
ccording to the feedback from the interim presentation, it provided me more opportunities for future possibilities. The structure achieved was really like an amazing bookshelf. The tower seems can be develop into a magic building which will attract more awareness. It may be more interesting to make it into a library or children. These two images I found give me he inspiration on the method of collecting books. Moreover, I prefer to using hand drawing to my design which provide more fun and attractive elements. I would like to put new criteria for evaluatng my design. For example, the structure is the most important one. Then the functionalism. The ast one is the reflection on the technique skills.
B.7. Learning Objectives and Outcomes For the part B section, it is really hard to achieve the outcomes of the practical activities. There have been a lots of challenges, but it was also a process that full of achievability. Even if consumed a lots of time to overcome one issue, it quite interesting and undesirable. I was really happy I can use the software to create amazing models or design. At first step, I tried to get used with the new designing method which is the parametric computation. It was really tough to generate a variety of design possibilities. Even I had some ideas in mind, I still had no idea how can I produce them in the computational skills. But with long time spending time with it and the help provided by the tutorial videos, my skill was improved a bit. When I had no ideas about what I am supposed to address some problems, Woodbury’s article gave me a perception about the parametric algorithm and also fabrication considerations. In addition, Kalay’s article also provided me with some useful technique such as the research process. By getting essential points from these readings, I was inspired to generate better ideas and iterations when comprehend. The most impressive one is the process on fabrication. I never used fablab before. When I achieved one satisfied model, I was not sure wether if it can be fabricated or not and which material should I utilize. Therefore, I could only chose the model that I can made out by hands. The prototypes part is really poor. I need to do more research and find out more case study to get specific idea on fabrication. Maybe I can achieve them from different structure
by using different materials. Then experment them from stretching, bending, sagging. To compare the results and set a series of criteria to chose the best one. Therefore, I should pay more attention on the fabrication. Studio Air actually give me a specific relationships between construction, design and materiality. In addition, this studio also ask us to try to understand the relationship between architecture and its surrounding environment. It is a good point for my further development. This objective may not extremely crucial, but it does contribute a lot into my design process in terms of sustainability and green technology consideration which is also a significant point that I learnt from my case study two. In part C, I will pay more attention on the criteria of my design. In addition, I would like to bring landscape and architecture together into one project. And the utilization of patterining skills will be mainly developed in the next stage. I will try to find more essential ideas of my precedents to improve the design.
B.8. Appendix-Algorithmic Sketches
Reference List Farshid Moussavi and Michael Kubo, eds, The Function of Ornament Kalay,Yehuda E., Architecture’s New Media: Principle, theories, and methods of computer-aided Design http://www.solaripedia.com/13/188/1882/aqua_tower_building_section.html http://www.a-r-m.com.au/projects_SwanstonSquare.html http://www.skyscrapercenter.com/building/aqua/886