STUDIO AIR LEE TZE YUNG F I O N A 3 6 9 9 7 3 FRIDAY 9AM
LOUIS KAHN A GREAT BUILDING MUST BEGIN WITH UNMEASURABLE, MUST GO THROUGH MEASURABLE MEANS WHEN IT IS BEING DESIGNED AND IN THE END MUST BE UNMEASURABLE.
CONTENTS Introduction A. Expression of Interest Architecture as discourse Computing in Architecture Parametric modelling Case Study 1.0 Case Study 2.0 Matrix Exploration Fabrication Reflection Proof of concept Project Research B. Project Proposal C. Reflection
G A T EWA Y P R O J EC T
WEEK 1
F I O N A L E E ARCHITECTURE ART&DESIGN T
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MY-PROFILE Born and raised in Hong Kong. I’ve been living in a place with a sophisticated fusion of east and west with a rich blend of cultures. My interests includes art, design and continuously exploring new opportunities, I’ve a great obsessed in visual art and enjoy traveling around the world. Through travelling it has broaden my horizons significantly, I found myself interested in the world of architecture and design, which guides me to choose architecture as my major. What I am looking forward to, and wish for, is the ability to combine my past aesthetic skills and experience to architecture field and enhance the quality of my work. As a 3rd year architecture student, I have been using digital software such as SketchUp, Auto CAD and Photoshop in my previous project. Also
Introduction
Not a beginner but an elementary learner of Rhino & In-design, I was quite desperate as this subject required the knowledge to digitalize the model by using a software which I am unfamiliar with. I realize Rhino was an important and professional software which are frequently used in architectural industry. I can see the benefits I can gain from, if I am able to master the software well. Although it takes time to pick up with those techniques, it is worthy and valuable. Therefore, I will definitely spend more effort and hopefully achieve a great improvement in my Rhino & Grasshopper skills after 12 weeks studies.
WEEK 1
ADS-WATER BOATHOUSE R I C H A R D M
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The boathouse was design in a free structured building. Using the idea of pilotis, I have placed columns in grid style to enlarge the horizontal openness by lifting building off ground. Size of shape and floor plans were shaped in different ways. The project is about exploring the formal rules, compositional and aesthetic principles of an architect – Richard Meier . After observing and analyzing Meier’s work, i have tried to follow his style and design a boathouse in the manner of the master. It enabled me to create a two or three story voids in my design, it propose a changeable reading of space and volumes during the daytime through sunlight. Public place were usually seated in enclose area yet serving place were bounded by walls. All these helps to create a great contrast of public & servinig area as well as solid & void.
Previous project
WEEK 1
THE YAS HOTEL ASYMOTOTE A B U , D H A B I
THE TOPOGRAPHIC VEIL
Architecture as discourse
Although the veil only had one surface and one edge, it was actually preserved under a continuous deformation of objects. Deformation is caused by stretching, the veil comprised of two hotel towers and a link bridge, whilst acting as a tunnel- like sculpted shell above the Formula 1 track which enables cars to pass through. The well use of topological space in the architecture inspires me a lot. I will try testing on stretching, twisting and bending a simple shape to combines different elements together and see if I can link building and external environment together. On the other hand, the complex geometric structure and its unique outline shaping gave people a delightful impression. The pixelated lighting designed by Asymptote creates a dynamic appearance at night, with colors flowing smoothly across the double curved surface and create a stunning picturesque style of architecture. The well use of lighting and reflection in the architecture brings a dramatic effect to the design as a whole. By analysising the style of this structure, it has given me ideas and also allow me to understand how architecture may convey and express different message of various kind of feelings in day and night times. I
WEEK 1
THE BEIJING NATIONAL AQUATICS CENTER PTW ARCHITECTS, CSCEC, CCDI, ARUP BEIJING, CHINA
Architecture as discourse
THE IRREGULAR CUBE The Water Cube shows a discourse of generating various geometry structure. It’s not only visually striking but also shaped in a simple regular form with a vary complex geometry. Behind the irregular, organic patterns foam bubble structures, it was supported by digital technology. The digital device facilitated the translation of geometrical information to the fabrication machine. It significantly breaks the constraints of the grid. Therefore, the geometric pattern was independent from the internal structure grid. This give me an insight that every kind of shapes had a potential to form a building structure. Aside from the limits of regular grid structure, more opportunity can be discover during designing process. And the parametric software and digital fabrication will be a powerful tool to express various expression.
WEEK 2
COMPUTER HAS BECAME AN UNAVOIDABLE PART OF HUMAN LIFE, AS WELL AS THE ARCHITECTURAL DISCIPLINE.
Computing in Architecrure
INSIGHT OF PROBLEM BETTER PRESENTATION OF IDEA BREAKING LIMITATION Architect could adopt a design process that would ensure that their creation met the design goals, abided by craftsmanship’s constraints and reduced the likelihood of errors. The use of computer could also help with fabricate and construct the resulting building in a very short amount of time, where the traditional way of design which was very time consuming since it is all done by hand.
Computer displays data graphically and numerically. It has the ability to avoid arithmetical mistakes as well as the ability to store heaps of information. This does not only create convenience for designers. But also ensure the accuracy of design outcome. Computer can do things quickly and repeatedly, furthermore able to alter mistake in a much easier way.
Computation in architecturall design was known as a problem analysis, also feasibility analysis. With computer, it expanded access to information, for example, site condition. Using these information as a starting point, it make things much easier for architects to determine size of building, use of material and estimate develop process. All of the above attempts to forecast the effects and problem may appear during design process. Computation can definitely help in discover possible side effects and aftereffects that potential solutions might create.
WEEK 2
THE MOBIUS HOUSE U N - S T U D I O HET GOOI, HOLLAND 1 9 9 3 - 1 9 9 8
People move – Architecture stops. People desire – space defines. The designer as spatial programmer collects movements and desires and releases them into theconception of building. (Anderson, 2011) Digital modelling has greatly affected the design method. Digital generated forms are not design in conventional ways, new shapes and forms are developed. This can be illustrated by the Mobius House in Netherlands. The house was shaped in a 3-dimensional torus and strip shape. And it was created by generative processes based on topological concept. Design of architecture can be more creative and complex since the information can be extracted, exchanged and utilized with far great facility and speed.
Computing in Architecrure
WALTDISNEY CONCERT HALL
LOS-ANGELES,U.S. ( 1 9 9 9 – 2 0 0 3 )
It provide a better presentation, since the digital model was cohesive and complete enough to contains all the information necessary for designing and producing a building. The digital model of the Walt Disney Concert Hall was express in four-dimension. It not only clear enough to show the plans, sections, and elevations of building but also the volume and spatial relationship within the architecture. The four dimensional model also shows the interior structure of the building, this allow audience to figure out the circulation, flow of journey and orientation of building much easier than simple looking at 2D plan and section drawings.
WEEK 3
DE YOUNG MUSEUM Jacques-Herzog Pierre-de-Meuron San-Fransico Carlifornia,USA
PERFORMATIVE ARCHITECTURE Performative architecture is a kind of architecture that building performance is a guiding design principle as an emerging approach to architecture. The emphasis on building performance is redefining expectations of the building design, its processes and practices. De Younf Museum by Herzog & de Meuron is a remarkable revival of a building that has been badly damaged in the past earthquakes. To help withstand future earthquakes, the new design of the building was able to move up to three feet due to a system of ball-bearing sliding plates and vicious fluid dampers that absorb kineticenergy and convert it to heat. The designers were sensitive to the appearance of the building in its natural setting. The landscape was designed to create a pleasant, functional environmental that would allow visitors to enjoy California’s welcoming climate. The rest of the landscapes design focuses on creating a link between the building and its surroundings through historic elements from the original museum.
How PARAMETER PATTERNS are used? PERFORATED SKIN
The emphasis on building performance is redefining expectations of the building design, its processes and practices. The outside skin of the De Young Museum was clad in a copper panels covered with abstract pixelated patterns derived from over 650MB of images. The complex covering process was produced by mechanical process and sheet metal skills came from A. Zahner Co. Computation make architect’s life much easier as digital softwares allow them to iterate the extraction process as many times as needed, giving them complete artistic freedom. The software made it possible to accurately and efficiently manage the massive amount of data, fabricate the panels correctly, and ship them halfway across the country while making it easy to install the in a correct order. The abstract texture of canopy was created by mapped high-constrast digital images onto the building surfaces and pixelated into a finite set of depths or diameters.
Parametric Modelling
WEEK 3
FEDERATION SQUARE Donald Bates, Peter Davidson Lab Studio M e l b o u r n e A u s t r a l i a
Only possible to create by COMPUTER. Federation square was one of the most complex and ambitious construction projects undertaken in Australia. Federation square was form within a triangular pinwheel grid, the fractal façade and surface was combines with small and fragment component unit, the complex design contains connection of thousands little segments and patterns which was only possible to create by computer. In other words, It has successfully break the pass limitation and expressed the advantages of digital architecture by expressing more possibilities of forms and effects. It’s a kind of invention that digital programmes helps to deal with a variety of configuration and arrangements. With the help of computer, unique patterns, figurations and surface qualities can be developed.
Parametric Modelling
It allows the grid and building patterns to treated in a continuous changing and visually dynamic way. It not only proposed a new language which the traditional architecture elements such as plans, elevations and sections cant express but also allow a better presentation of idea.
WEEK 3
Parametric Modelling
GUANG ZHOU OPERA HOUSE Z a h a - H a d i d GuangZhou,China
Parametric modelling / Project One Advanced computational technologies were required in the structural design of the Opera House. Organized by scripts of the dynamic systems of parametric design, the auditorium was represents in a NURB surfaces, the organic shape helps to form a continuous, seamless surface. Meanwhile, the faceted structural skin was covered in triangular tiles made of glass and granite. It combines parametric geometry with traditional methods, such as the sand-casting of the main structural steel nodes, and It is vaulted off of a separate, interior volume of concrete that houses the opera theatre.
WEEK 3
Parametric modelling / Project Two
Parametric Modelling
SAGRADA-FAMILIA
A n t o n i - G a u d i , B a r c e l o n a
The Sagrada Familia church had a protracted period of construction since 1883, building was completed between 10 and 100 years. During the time, the building access was constrained and information are hidden within the building fabric. By adapting parametric modelling, Gaudi designs the columns by varying sizes and shapes and treating the initial shapes as parameters. It allows types of transformation and design creates were consistent with the historical information on the church and able to test different design solutions and find out the most potential one.
As a parametric models generation system, the possibilities for application of the design procedures are absolutely boundless. Parametric modelling systems pose a challenge to expend the design process beyond current limitations by: - Offering more flexible to design parts and assemblies of complex nature - Provide reliable system to test instances of designs from a single model - Expand design exploration of at the initial stages of the process Parametric modelling requires rigorous thought in the process to build a model that is appropriate for the needs of the designer and a very sophisticated structure. Even it can be time consuming, a good parametric model has the advantages to provide a solid structure that will act as a container of information of the design history.
WEEK 4
CUT CASE STUDY 1.0
McCormick Tribune Campus Center [ OMA ]
Cut Case Study 1.0
GRASSHOPPER ADAPTION
With a parameter space of grid of circles surface. I taken the definitions and create new works from them. 1 - 3 Images are always 2D and made up of numerous pixels. By using the image sampter in grasshopper, i tried to associate the size of circles with the image by adjusting the radius of circle and the number of rows and columns of the grid. Density and quantity of circles were change according to the brightness of image, In the process of modifying the surface i can see how the circles develop and the surface outcome was getting more likely to the input image. 4 - 5 Than i start to change the plane of the surface by transform it from 2D to a 3D surface. A+fter baking all the commands, i select control points from different portions and adjust their Z value. This was a kind of mapping skil 6 I tried to create new work by adding vertical lines to the surface, and the different height of the vertical lines also creating an interesting outcome, which may contribute in mapping and landscape making.
WEEK 4
TAICHUNG METROPOLITAN OPERA HOUSE T o y o - i t o Taichung,taiwan
“ Building such a structure containing three-dimensional curved walls was generally thought impossible but we are making the impossible possible.� Wu chun-shan, president of lee ming construction Geometry deals with shapes, but in actually handling these shapes. Geometry deals with the construction and representation of free-form curves, surfaces, or volumes. The language and knowledge of geometry chitecture has grown and developed giving a view into a fabulous world of pure order. The expression of these ideal forms in the world as structure and ornament and continues to be an activity of architecture.
Group Research & Argument
GEOMETRY
in Taichung metropolitan opera house.
It is formed with several connecting curved walls, inlaid floors, inlaid interior and exterior walls. The freeform geometry was express in a rational and efficient manner, the continuous surfaces in an open structure which actively engages its surroundings in all directions and creates great opportunities for artists and visitors, stage and auditorium, interior and exterior.
WYNDHAM
CITY
GATEWAY
PROJECT
The Taichung metropolitan opera house give me an insight in applying geometry theories in the Wyndham city gateway project. With the prominent site location and open landscape, it would be very interesting to applied continuous structure and open structure. Initially the open structure could help to maximize the accessibility of the wide public and conventional lighting.Besides, with the geometric approach, the shape could be freeform and abstract, it can seat to unite three site of the Gateway installation together as well as provide a great viewing from all directions.
WEEK 5
MVS HARBOUR STUDY & CORNER STUDY
MINIMAL-SURFACES is a surface which has zero mean curvature at all points. The mean curvature of a surface is an extrinsic measure of curvature that comes from different geometry and locally describes the curvature of an embedded surface in ambient space. an equipoise of tensions. These two studies were trying to explore a type of minimal space and sort out the equipoise of tensions to its maximum potential. Developed by continually subdividing a precursor, gravitating the gradients to their lowest energy configurations, it’s noticeable that the surface could still retain their ability to develop, to link and extend continuously.
Cut case study 2.0
REFLECTION
Parametricism has its roots in the digital animation techniques of the mid1990s, it has only fully emerged in recent years with the development of advanced parametric design systems. The structural framework composed of a mesh constructed with linear steel members, the joint conditions is particularly complex as it receives multiple linear elements from varying angles and pitches connecting to one point. The different dimension of steel and connection angles in the architecture reveals that parametric design allows element to change flexibly and result in interesting outcomes.
WEEK 6
GRASSHOPPER ADAPTION
Matrix Exploration
RE-ENGINEERED OUTCOME
SIMILARITIES DIFFERENCES Creating the model by continuously mirroring a single surface, the surface enables a continuous surface with sidedness remained. Both projects were likely a subtracted structure, however the re- engineered model was more symmetry between different faces and less abstract compare to the real project. The result shows varied density and perception of distance and depth can be achieved. Having different variations is essential to produce the most ideal outcome that can be best performed my design criteria in the Gateway Design Project.
WEEK 6
MATRIX EXPLORATION
Matrix Exploration
These definitions are created by combining inputs, outputs and associations together. After attempting different methods, we explored some particular combinations which can give rise to innovative design solutions for the Wyndham Gateway Project.
G E O M E T R Y MINIMALSURFACE INTERCONNECTIN F R A M E L E S S Our development are trying to incorporate the main focus of geometry and minimal surfaces in a matrix format. Hopefully provide us a starting point from which we can further develop in the gateway design. “ The starting point for many design methods has been the notion that design is a process of searching for a solution that satisfies a given set of goals and constraints.� Yehuda E. Kalay Kalay seems to suggest that playing around with various shapes and producing different outcomes are always preferable in starting a design. Architectural design typically uses a combination of search methods and we are engaging in this process through this matrix exercise. The exercise was concededly stimulative. By exploring different combinations and forms of matrix, it helps us to brainstorm our ideas and explore possibilities of our design.
WEEK 6
MATRIX EXPLORATION
After exploring and analysing various matrix combinations, we discovered that grasshopper is an exciting and evolving modelling platform, the numerous combinations our group attempted had develop a range of geometric examples to explore the potential of minimal surfaces. The intent visual effects that our group wanted to achieve are illusion, movement and uncertainty of inner and outta space. The chosen design had not only created an indefinite spatial boundary of exterior and interior, it also shows an interconnection of minimal surfaces. The arch was fabricated with various polygons arranged in descending size. Each component was features with a unique stretch system. Acting as an entry for the municipality, such combination creates a sense of mystery and richness to the gateway.
Matrix Exploration
CONCEPT BREAKDOWN
1. Take any surface input
2. Generates a system of interconnecting panels
3. Breaks the surface into modules and creates a series of components.
4. Combines together efficiently to form a cohesive experience allow flexibility in final outcomes
WEEK 7
FABRICATION OUR INDIVIDUAL CREATIVITY IS THE INPUT, AND OUR MODEL PROVIDES THE PARAMETERS.
Fabrication
TOGETHER THEY PRODUCED PARAMETRIC RESULTS...
WEEK 7
S T R E T C H I N G Stretching are ideal for compound or organic forms, as they allow the interior framework to push through the fabric to create stalactitelike shapes. Acting as both walls and ceiling elements, the organic shape defines a tunnel space. The elastic capabilities of stocking are used to their full potential, creating not only unique forms and shapes but interesting shadowing effects caused by the unusual architecture. Stretch fabrics, such as stocking we used in our model, are also ideal for flutes, funnels, or other organic shapes. By pinned the stocking on different location of the Perspex, shape can be easily modified or distort, this helps us to shape the interior with dramatic effect and surprising ease. Nevertheless, the fabricated stocking can be any colour and different degree of transparency. Hence, light will go through the sculpture from different layers and display an ever- changing visual effect and makes the pattern appears to be 3-dimensional which is necessary for the visual aesthetic we desire.
Fabrication
WEEK 7
CUT CASE MODEL
Fabrication
D E S I G N V I S I O N Motorists can experience the dynamic change of space and movement while traveling high speed. Meanwhile, the sculpture was abstract and eye catching enough to catch visitor’s attention and curiosity to check out and experience the interior. The outcome has successfully translated and re-emerged the idea of minimal surfaces into an individual component. Nevertheless, the iconic appearance had undoubtedly inspired and enriches the municipality with his modern design intent behind.
WEEK 7
REFLECTION At first I was confused about what a minimal surfaces is and how it was related to parametric architecture, but as time goes and spending time goes through the readings and materials provided on LMS every week makes me have better understanding on the logic of minimal surfaces. It was roughly about a surface that is not limited to various constraints, had a continuous structure with unreferenced boundary. However, as I look in some of the cases deeper, some minimal surface architecture existed in reality were just look like but not actually an minimal surfaces. Such as the FRAC Centre, the organic and nature structural network creates various opening within a sensation of enclosure. Although the spatial environment was undefined, the curvature was broke up in singular elements, being unrolled and cut out, eventually fabricated by combining all flat pieces together. By using fabric for the small scale modelling in our EOI mid-semester presentation, it had successfully define and separate spaces. In the following weeks our group will develop this idea more and try to merge it together with the structural elements in our gateway design, from floor to wall , wall to column, column to ceiling, and hopefully achieve a stunning outcome.
Fabrication
THE FRAC CENTRE
Marc Fornes, Jon Becker, Peter Nguyen
WEEK 8
DIGITAL TO PHYSICAL
The They Co. & Commissioned Two Bridges Neighborhood Council. Mulberry Street Btwn Houston and Prince, NYC
From the digital model to the physical model, difficulties occurred in the way. Organic shapes such as flutes and funnels has attached in the design. The fabricate process involves altering and reforming, It is not possible to create it by simply stretching the fabric material without any framework or constrained. The solution was let the stocking penetrated the ring in middle and pinned them in several fixed points to create minimal surfaces. The advanced fabrication process was originally inspired by the San Gennaro North Gate. The architecture was in a weaved and stretched structure. We found it was quite innovative that the structure was actually defined by a few points rather than fixed curves. The way of overhanging and unevenly place of point has express the sculpture itself is abstract. This stimulated us to represent our physical model in an aesthetic form, it can be an ornament, a freeform minimal structure with flexible framework.
Proof of concept
FUTURE-PLANS After the mid semester presentation, I considered how our design can be actually built in site. I start thinking about the material used, lighting and construction techniques of our design. Often mentioned as a pioneer in lightweight tensile and membrane construction, the Munich Olympic Stadium in Germany had gave me an insight of what our design can actually does in reality.
S I T E The overall form can reference aspect from the surrounding landscape. The You Yangs are a series of granite ridges rise above the Werribee Plain. The landscape was clearly identifiable and iconic from nearby Geelong, Melbourne and beyond. The undulating roofs may act as a continuous of natural landscape, together with the dramatically sculpted earthscapes, all elements were unify in one.
WEEK 8
STRUCTURE After spending time go through the feedbacks from tutors and cleared up all the question in mind after the mid semester presentation. I realize the Perspex frame used to fixed the stocking had actually constrain the maximum potential of expand and spread of minimal surfaces. In Munich Olympic Stadium, polyester fabric was suspended on hangers independent of the cable net. The supporting masts held the main cables in tension, thus providing the necessary support for hanging roof areas. Therefore, instead of bounding the minimal surface in a box, we decided to expend the surface outwards and create a frameless structure.
Proof of concept
MATERIALS The canopy of tunnel was to symbolize the new, iconic entry to metropolitan Melbourne, we want to make it visually and technically impress. A translucent fabric material will be desirable. As it will be able to avoid rigid, rectangular shapes emerging from the design process yet the material had their own reaction to the variance in sun light. Translucent fabrics screen out harsh light and bring texture or pattern to light coming into the interior. Tensotherm, as the world’s first and only translucent and insulated tensile fabric roofing material, It’s an innovative thin insulated composite roofing material created from proven PTFE tensile membrane fabric, with the most efficient insulation material .
WEEK 8
P R O J E C T RESEARCH MODELLING Concept model is not only an experiment of testing the feasibility of the model in reality but also an experiment, a brain storming which may lead us to build something more creative. Originally inspired by minimal surfaces, the physical outcome our group achieved was presented similar to a tent structure. The way we structure our fabric could simultaneously affect the lightness, mobility and structure elegance of the final outcome. In order to create a beautiful tensile structure in our final work, we looked at some passed works by senior master students and concepts models of the Munich Olympic Stadium. The wide-ranging of past built models shows the exciting possibilities of contemporary tensile building and the give us some new ideas to build a feasible final model.
Project Research
Net construction concept models for the Munich Olympic Stadium Models were constructed in different method with various type of material, such as net, rubber band, and even bubble soap. Looking at these concept models, it provide a brain- stormed effect which led me to construct the model in a more creative way. All of the models was inspiring, especially the striking models produced by soap and rubber band. The outcome was mostly freeform, and you can’t predict the final result until you try it out.
WEEK 8
Pavilion built by master students located outside ERC The pavilion itself is made up of a triangular frame and consist of three pole like longitudinal timber membranes. Pole, rod, string and hooks are used to complete the model. Our group is interested in the joint system, rather than simply hanging the fabric on hook and use string to life up the fabric, curtain roller was attached in the joint. Hence, the tensility and form of shaping can be easily alter by the roller and consequently create vary form of outcomes. This gave me an insight that it is feasible to attach alterable component in our design to create a changeable effect in our project.
Project Research
WORK IT OUT... In order to text the feasibility of design, we start with building concept models .
WEEK 8
PROTOTYPE
C O N S T R U C T I O N DETAILED-MODEL Even though the model outcome looks extremely similar to our original design, the minimal structure beneath was very fluid and hardly to understand. Construct by setting fixed point and stretching freely, the outcome would be unpredictable which is hardly express by renderings and drawings. Computer can do it but it is more immediate to try to do something with the fabric to really understand its properties. Therefore, this concept model was not merely a refinement of idea but also acted as a prototype but a frame of reference for us to do further improvement.
Project Research
THINGS TO IMPROVE - A steady frame work welded on site. - A better junction. Enlarge the size of holes in each component and enable screw to tighten in. - Choose a more rigid modelling material. Since cardboard are easily bended and distorted in shape during fabrication. Balsa wood or clear Perspex would be preferable.
WEEK 8
F A I L U R E After the first prototype, we did second attempt with some modification. We changed the material and use balsa wood instead of cardboard for building modules. Although it was rigid and strong, the form of module was twisted a lot in Rhino, and balsa wood was too hard to bend and made it difficult to stick together. On the other hand, we start testing on the Perspex frame. However, the outcome was too thin. We just apply little force and the Perspex arch ribs fragmented into bits. Since we did not designe any holes on the Perspex surface, we use double-sided tap to tap the fabric on frame, and the tap was actually unable to hold the fabric stable and tight.
Project Research
REFINEMENT
Come across failures in prototype, we did some final refinement. 1. Extend the width of the Perspex arch 2. Use cardboard to build modules 3. Instead of tap, use strings to fixed fabric on frame.
WEEK 8
F I N A L M O D E L M A K I N G
Our group decided to produce three models for our final presentation. A A0 site contour site model to show the scale. A Perspex model attached with fabric to show the in overall form and the interior minimal surfaces. A construction model to show it’s construction detail and how it actually looks like in reality. As this was a large amount of work, we receive 5kg weighted cardboards and Perspex from Fab lab and started our three days non-stop model building time.
Project Research
P R O C E S S RECORDING We build 80 little modules and join them together to form an archway. In the final stage, we tried out some new techniques for model making. We spray paint our construction detail model in silver colour to present it as iron steel material. Puzzle the Perspex rib frame together than we start sowing fabric on. The transparent Perspex frame looks good with the black stretchy fabric, and it successfully show how minimal surfaces would actually look like in out tunnel.
Week 9-11
F I N A L PROPOSAL Our proposal integrates a pannelised floral system on the exterior and a continuous minimal surface on the interior. This ambiguity of perception leaves the viewer unsure and overwhelmed by a total experience of light and material.
WHAT Minimal surfaces Structure modulisation Pannelisation Light infiltration Referencing and integrating with the natural landscape and cultural of Wyndham
The gateway project
HOW Create an experience Blurred boundaries between interior & exterior Structure mimics the YouYangs A clash between a digital and natural landscape The site requires efficient construction Our design will become an icon for Wyndham and promote and advertise Wyndham as a vibrant convergence of country and city
G A T EWA Y P R O J EC T
Week 9-11
PRECEDENT FORMATION
SIMILAR TECHNIQUES SIMILAR AREA OF INTEREST
SAN GENNARO NORTH GATE Softlabs
This precedent has shown how architecture could present aesthetically. Using multi- colour, patterns and craftsmanship in design, it could suggest as a polychrome architecture. The suspended structure was defined by points instead of fixed lines. And the way it being hanged and formed looks similar to the result of stretching minimal surfaces. Rather than a simple art craft, it was sculptural and experiential.
The gateway project
MUNICH OLYMPIC STADIUM F. Otto, G. Behnisch, H. Peltz, C. Weber
Similarly, the stadium was using a tunnel like structure in design. The whole structure was framed by light-weighted steel cable, it’s efficient and able to span a large distance. The large scale of design created a continuous shell of the architecture. The transparent materials acrylic glass also allows light to penetrate the structure.
SOUTHERN
CROSS
STATION
Daryl Jackson
In this Melbourne example, the Southern Cross station had a similar function as our gateway project. It was designed a roof covering a transport route with a pannellisated of a frame. With the Smooth deceiving exterior, it has a showcases interior structure. Pedestrian will experience different visual impression from inside and outside. It had a different perceptions depending on viewpoints.
Week 9-11
S I T E ANALYSIS
The gateway project
LOCATION P O S I T I O N Melbourne, Prosperous metropolis Werribee, Conjunction of city and suburban area Geelong, Natural scenery and cultural heritage The site was dominated by a flat open grassland, with a small hill in the middle area. The orange arrow shown in diagram indicated the traffic circulation of site. Drive from the west, motorists were travelling from a dormitory area to a metropolitan Melbourne, the gateway was actually filled with surprise. Featured as a continuous of mountain ridges, the interior was filled with changeable minimal surfaces, when motorists passing through, the tunnel was transforming the surrounding into a mysterious spatial area which totally different from the exterior. When they finished the journey, they will face a prospered city and experience another kind of feeling. It would be exciting that motorist can broaden their horizon by experiencing three different kind of visual feeling during high speed movement.
Week 9-11
REFINING CONCEPT How it link to the site? Youyangs landscape Our the
vision is to surrounding
SHAPING,
reference landscape
COLOUR
&
the gateway to visually through
PAVEMENT.
Represent the gateway as a mountain-like sculpture and enable it to blend with the nearby You Yangs granite rydges. Resonate the nature and provide a sense of harmonies with the environment. Hence, the model had responses to the topography and vegetation of the area. Situated half way between Melbourne and Geelong, on the Princess Highway, the You Yangs Regional Park is 23.9km south-west of the Wyndham City, take approximately 24 mins drive by car.
SHAPING
The gateway project
THE YOUYANGS ABSTRACTION We modify the gateway in grasshopper and reform its’ border into mountain outline.
YOUYANGS STATE PARK
ICONIC SKYLINE
TUNNEL FORM
MODULIZATION MINIMAL SURFACE
These panels was separated in two major group and aimed to express two differentiate idea. 1. Vegetation 2. Lighting system
PLAN
SOUTH ELEVATION
SECTION
Week 9-11
PAVEMENT COLOUR The name "You Yang" comes from the Australian aboriginal words “Wurdi Youang” or “Ude Youang” meaning "big mountain in the middle of a plain". The iconic You Yangs landscape attracted artists to paint them and feature most strongly in works by one of Australia's greatest artists, Fred Williams. Drawing inspiration from one of William’s painting, we decided to place vegetation on top of the gateway, and they are all native to Victoria and Wyndham.
VEGETATION MAP PANNELISE NATIVE FLORA
LEGEND ORANGE Themeda triandra (Kangaroo Grass) 1.5 m tall, 0.5 m across LIGHT GREEN Calocephalus citreus (Lemon Beauty head) 20-50 cm high by 30-60 cm wide Flower: late spring to summer DARK GREEN Prickly Spear-grass. Up to 50cm in height.
The gateway project
LIGHTING
M I N I M A L S U R F A C E S
As the fabric stretched from outside to inside, there were 8 openings on the tunnel exterior. During daytime, natural sunlight can easily access the interior, penetrating through minimal surfaces and fabric, interesting shadow were created. During night time, lighting system inside the tunnel in the tunnel performed with the high speed vehicles light. Bounded by a semi-solid exterior shell, it gave people a sense of mysterious.
Week 9-11
CONSTRUCTION How the work in transported to site & build around a busy freeway? As the gateway was formed by numerous pieces of modules, each module could be constructed separately. After finishing the interior structures of each module, workers can screw eight modules as a group to form an archway and join all the them together to form the whole thing. Considered as a busy and frequently used site, an efficient construction method was extremely important in the project. While constructing the tunnel, sizes of each individual module are able to deliver on site by normal trucks. Workers could work on separate module off site during the busy traffic hours and joined them on site during off peak time. This method could not only benefit the entire construction progress of the economies of time but also avoid the problem of traffic disturbance.
EXTERIOR VEGETATION CLADDING 50CM LAYER OF SOIL WOVEN MESH TO ALLOW DRAINAGE
RUST PROOF EXTERIOR TRAY PREFABRICATED STEEL MODULES BOLTED TOGETHER FOR EFFICIENT CONSTRUCTION
The gateway project
CONSTRUCTION DETAILS MINIMAL SURFACES FABRIC + MODULATE STELL FRAME
Week 9-11
Week 9-11
S T E E L F R A M E
The gateway project
I N T E R I O R
The gateway project
Week 9-11
The gateway project
I N T E R I O R M I N I M A L S U R F A C E S
Week 9-11
The gateway project
THE LIVING TOP The tunnel was managed to covered partially with vegetation and partially by minimal surfaces. By adding real vegetation and transparencies minimal surface covering on top, it increases the vitality and visual stimulation as a whole. The concept of the living top was references to the surrounding natural environment, and sunlight will penetrated the whole tunnel through the minimal surfaces. With its unique combination, the living roof adds to the picturesque beauty of the gateway. For the aesthetic enhancement in, lighting system will be added within the vegetation, and provide lighting effect at night time.
Week 9-11
The gateway project
NIGHT VIEW
WEEK 12
EXPERIENCE OF USING DIGITAL AND PARAMETRIC TOOLS DESIGN
WITH
COMPUTER
Being lack of skills in computing software, I faced lots of constrain in the beginning stage. Throughout this semester, I have learned how to use grasshopper to produce stunning and changeable parametric form. Using computer to fabricate the final outcome allows me to refine my design efficiently and generate a far greater range of possibilities of outcomes. This skill can definitely benefit for my future design project.
MODEL MAKING AND COMPUTER FABRICATION Focusing on minimal surfaces in our project, the referenceless and suspended structure created many failures during the modulating and panelling process. However, in physical model making we can create hundreds of different outcomes with evident result which we are happy with it. Attempt on unfamiliar materials such as Perspex and fabric, new model making technique such as spray painting, sowing and screwing had been exercised in the project. I had many chance to practise my model making skills this semester, from various concept models,
Final analysis
PRECEDENCE “Precedence in architecture is and always has been present. it is the invariable outcome of an architect being human and living in a built environment.” Being the first time to write an EOI, the studies and analyse of precedence allows me to look at architecture holistically and take away lessons that can inform our future design thinking. Giving direction and referencing for how we design, view, analyse and synthesize our own project, I learned how to argue persuasively by citing examples from precedence and investigate their design reason behind. This definitely improved my critical thinking skills and teach me how to ‘read’ a building thoughtfully.
COMMUNICATION VIA PHOTOGRAPHY & DIAGRAMS Spent loads of time in rendering and producing digital diagrams, I realized I am too dependent on physical model in past project. After seeking help with peers in the past few weeks, my photography and digital rendering skills are getting better and I have learned to use high quality photos and vector drawings to communicate visually. A good render and concept diagrams will be visually stimulating and capable to explain the idea of building itself. And this definitely is an aspect I have to put efforts for improvement in the future.
WEEK 12
REFLECTION Started with fragmental idea, elementary grasshopper exploration and a few precedence studies. There include much hard work to progress an incomplete design brief to the final proposal. Architecture is always a tool to stimulate human brain to its greatest extent. In this studio I have learnt a widerange of useful knowledge. Analysing precedence, mastering professional software, computational fabricating, digital presentation, every part of the course had definitely enhance my architectural learning. Regards to the journal, it was once very frustrating that I have been loss all my previous work at the end of semester due to In-design file damaged. Although it was exhausted to reallocate and layout everything again, I benefited a lot from the process and realised that it is extremely important to set up a better system and back up all works constantly. At the same time, I’m glad that I had two responsible and nice group mates accompany me to finish the whole project. Through the process of generating knowledge, exchanging ideas and criticising each other works. I learnt more than what the textbook taught me. Our work are improving through practise of argue and critically present of idea. This was a good practise as this is a practise that how real practise go about things and It is a useful task in long run. To sum up, I looked up numerous parametric projects that apply advanced computation outcome techniques in design, analysed the design intent of architecture by different famous architects and did precise research of the chosen site and construction details. This subject had certainly broaden my horizon and enriched my architectural life experience. I learnt how to read an architecture in different perspectives . Although it has been really hard core during these 12 weeks, this design studio is certainly the one I learnt and benefit most in these three years of university life.
Final analysis
WEEK 12
FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS This is the first time for me to adopt parametric design and this has obviously change my perspective to read an architecture. In the world of parametric design, it was kind of fluid as it’s generative, computational and associative characters. With different definition, it is easy to create massive different outcome and design something which may not possible with normal approach. With the help of digital software and computer fabrication, It will be more possible to turn my idea in reality. This maximized the potential and creativity in the field of design. I am looking forward to undertake my next design studio and applied the knowledge I obtained from the course. And I will certainly use more computer fabrication in the future as it saves up a lot of time and make my life much easier.
REFERENCE
AASD. (Unknown). Williams, Fredericks (Fred) Ronald. 1927-82 Australia, Britain, Available : http:// www.fredwilliams.me.com.au/hillock.html Last accessed 2 Nov 2012 Carter, P. (2012). Edithvale-Seaford Wetlands Discovery Centre by Minife van Schaik Architects. Available : http;//architectureau.com/articles/with-all-thw-views/. Last accessed 18 Jul 2012 Clay, S (2006). Minimal Surfaces. Available: http:// hans.math.upenn.edu/~shonwil/reaserch/talks/ Minimalsurfacesprintnomovie.pdf. Last accessed 20 Sept 2012 Laura, B. 2011. Melbourne, beautiful train station. Available: http://whimsicalworldoflaurabird.blogspot.com.au/2011/02/beautiful-train-staions.html Last accessed, 15 Oct 2012 Makmax. (Unknown), Tensotherm. Available: http://makmax.com.au/membrane/tensotherm Last accessed, 10 Oct 2012 Marc, F & theverymany. (2011), 11 Frac Cente. Available: http://theverymany.com/constructs/10frac-centre/ Last accessed 15 Oct 2012 Otto, F. 2011. Olympic Park of Munich. Available: http://netconstructions.blogspot.com. au/2011/112olympic-park-of-munich.html. Last accessed 15 Oct 2012 SoftLab. (2011), San Gennaro North Gate. Available: http://inspir3d.net/2011/10/24/xtra-moeniainstallation-by-softlab/ Last accessed, 15 Oct 2012