Foam Model

This is a model I created using foam in which I used a hot wire to form a basic shape of the structure then I sanded down the edges so that the structure is curvy. Based on the idea of flow, this allowed me to see what the main body of my building would look like. Drawing the model with the patterns allows me to visualise what the building could look like; this also stopped me from covering the whole building with the patterns so instead having a glass roof. This has also inspired me to use natural light so that when facing against the pattern it would create an effect on the ground of the building.

Heydar Aliyev Centre, Baku

I will be using the Heydar Aliyev Centre to start my research on movement and flow. The building has two faces with large windows to cover the flat areas, connected by the long body of the building that is shaped by the influence of the faces of the building. The building also flows to the floor which gives an illusion that the building is built from the ground up. Using this analysis will allow me to improve the current models I am working on.

The freeform structure of the project derives from the architectural design concept of modifying a single surface to adopt different functional requirements. The aim was to create a large column-free space giving visitors the opportunity of experiencing the fluidity of the interior. To achieve this, vertical elements are absorbed by the envelop and curtain wall system. The Heydar Aliyev centre consists of 2 structural systems which are space frame and concrete with a single movement joint.

The continuous architecture contains three major programs, including the museum, exhibition halls and convention centre, mainly composed by rigid concrete structure grid free from external space frame with a single movement joint. The three spaces are separated from each other and have their own entry and security areas. Also, they share some common places under the continuous external skin. In order to make column free space, the certain wall and envelope serve as vertical elements.