Lim_Haidee_617093_Studio Air by Haidee Lim

STUDIO AIR 2015, SEMESTER 1, PHILIP BELESKY HAIDEE LIM 617093

Table of Contents INTRODUCTION 4 PART A: CONCEPTUALISATION

A.1 Design Futuring

6-11

A.2 Design Computation

12-17

A.3 Composition Generation

18-23

A.4 Conclusion 24

A5 Learning Outcomes

A6 Appendix-Algorithmic Sketches26-27

References 28-29 PART B: CRITERIA DESIGN

B.1 Research Field

30-37

B.2 Case Study 1.0

38-45

B.3 Case Study 2.0

46-53

B.4 Technique: Development

54-61

B.5 Technique: Prototype

62-67

B.6 Technique: Proposal

68-77

B.7 Learning Objectives and

78-81

Outcomes B.8 Appendix-Algorithmic Sketches 82-85

References

PART C: DETAILED DESIGN

C.1 Design Concept

C.2 Tectonic Elements

88-109

and Prototypes

C.3 Final Detail Model

C.4 Learning Objectives and Outcomes

110-125

126-137

138-139

References 140

01. INTRODUCTION

WHO AM I? My name is Haidee Lim Yii Ern and I am currently in my third year of my Bachelor of Environments degree. I was born and raised in a small city in Malaysia called â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Kuchingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; (which means cat in Malay). I chose to do architecture as my major because I always had a passion in art and creating things. Since young, I would usually get into trouble for drawing on whatever I can get my hands on including school tables, walls and making a huge messes from making doll houses and its furnitures from old cardboard boxes and shoe boxes. Besides, eating, cooking, , drawing and playing video games, my other hobbies include practicing martial arts such as Wushu and Taichi and on certain occasions, Karate.I hope I will learn and develop more on my design and software knowledge through this program.

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PART A: CONCEPTUALISATION

A.1 DESIGN FUTURING Architecture has evolved drastically from the past few centuries and over the years, opinions on design has also shifted. The readings by Fry, Dunne and Raby discusses on how some architects today focuses mainly on problem solving and creating sustainable structures which has can have limitations on how some architects method on designing. These projects are used to agree and disagree with some of these statements and show how architects can design using ways such as learning from the past or â&#x20AC;&#x153;defuturingâ&#x20AC;?, sustainability and problem solving that could apply to the contemporary view on architecture.

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1.1 Yufutoku Restaurant Issho Architects

Written in the extract written by Fry, he stated that “proposition that the new can be learned from the past”1 . From this, it is possible to create designs that were created and used in the past. As design has evolved drastically in the past few decades, new methods and perception on how designs should be or developed by having a more contemporary and artistic look and building method have become most people’s ideal idea of design. The Yufutoku restaurant is a Japanese restaurant located in central Tokyo 2 where its feature stands out among its neighbours due to its modern and artistic appearance. However, the wooden louvers on the façade is built similarly to the traditional Machiya style wooden louvers which are commonly seen in traditional Japanese town houses 3.Therefore, despite its contemporary look, traditional Japanese building systems used in the past were used to construct the façade. Hence, it plays homage to traditional architecture and make sure that the tradition still remains while bringing “defuturing qualities”to it4 . It shows how innovation in design can be done not just by trying to create something that has never been done before but by looking back in the past to find ways to find ways to create new designs.

At the start of the 20th centuries, population boom has caused the world to be unsustainable5. As population booms, so does the built environment which causes more environmental problems. Even though Dune and Raby mentioned that design should not be just about problem solving such as overcoming overpopulation6 , but in order for creations to be built, problem solving needs to be incorporated. In this design, insufficient space was the problem. Therefore the designers tackled this problem by showing how they can fit the building in a narrow space, the width of the restaurant is no more than 2 meters7 and still be functional. Therefore, there are many possibilities to designing and in the Yufutoku restaurant case, preserving traditions and looking at problems are able to come up with a creation that seems innovative.

FIG1: THE YUFUTOKU RESTAURANT

1Tony Fry, Design Futuring: Sustainability, Ethics and New Practice (Oxford: Berg, 2008), p. 15. 2 Dennis Franklin, Yufutoku Restaurant by ISSHO Architects, (Architectism, 2013),<http://architectism.com/yufutoku-restaurant-issho-architects/ >[accessed 10 March 2015]. 3 Franklin <http://architectism.com/yufutoku-restaurant-issho-architects/ > 4 Fry, p. 15. 8

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5 Anthony Dunne & Fiona Raby, Speculative Everything: Design Fiction, and Social Dreaming (MIT Press, 2013), p. 8. 6Dunne & Raby, p. 2. 7 Jan Zimmerman, Quick Luck, (Mapolis, 2013)< http://architecture.mapolismagazin.com/issho-architects-yufutoku-restaurant-tokyo> [accessed 10 March 2015].

FIG.2: MACHIYA STYLE WOODEN LOUVERS INCORPORATED IN TO THE FACADE

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1.2 Ice Pavilion Alexander Brodsky Nowadays buildings are design to last long and are able to overcome upcoming problems that might arise. However according to Dune1, the future is unpredictable and is always constantly changing . He further elaborates that, since the future is unpredictable what designers might think that is sustainable or useful in the long run might not happen and that problem solving alone will not create a design that will always solve future problems2. However, the ice Pavilion, tackles this notion of creating sustainable structures by creating temporary structures using renewable or unused materials. The pavilion is build on top of a frozen lake and is meant to disappear when the ice melts during spring where the structure will sink into the lake3. It is built from rectangular meshes in a way that makes it easy to be constructed and deconstruct . Brodsky is well known for using local and reused material 1 Anthony Dunne and Fiona Raby, Speculative Everything: Design Fiction, and Social Dreaming (MIT Press, 2013),p. 2-3 2 Dunne & Raby,p.p. 2-3 3 Mark Lamster, Return of the Prodigal Son, (Metropolis,2006) <http://www.metropolismag.com/May-2006/Return-of-the-Prodigal-Son/>[accessed 15 March 2015].

for his projects including this structure 4 hence it also agrees with Fry’s statement 5 where “relation between creation and destruction is not a problem when resource is renewable, but is a disaster when is not”. Therefore, even though the building is destroyed in the end but by using renewable materials such as the wood and mesh used in the ice pavilion, it is still considered sustainable. Dune also mentions that design thrives on imagination rather than problem solving 6. Rather than concentrating on solving problems and trying to find ways to design something that looks good, the originality of the design and concept of the ice pavilion clearly shows that Brodsky strayed away from these clichés and focused on imagining how his creation will work in its given environment. This is seen as for the facade of the pavilion, water is sprayed onto the metal mesh which forms ice cubes due to the cold weather7. This gives the structure its cladding and the effect of the ice creates ambient glow at night. Hence this shows that design does not all need to be complex but 4 Lamster <http://www.metropolismag.com/May-2006/Return-of-the-ProdigalSon/> 5 Tony Fry, Design Futuring: Sustainability, Ethics and New Practice (Oxford: Berg, 2008), p. 4. 6 Dunne and Raby, p. 2. 7 Lamster <http://www.metropolismag.com/May-2006/Return-of-the-ProdigalSon/>

FIG 3: ICE PAVILION SITTING ON TOP OGF THE LAKE SHOWING ITS GLOW

FIG 5: VIEW FROM THE INTERIOR OF THE STRUCTURE

FIG 4:ICE CUBES FORMED ON THE MESHES OF THE PAVILION

FIG 6: VIEW SHOWING HOW THE VISITORS

A.2 DESIGN COMPUTATION

In todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s modern design age, using software such as CAD, Rhino and grasshopper are frequently used in design. Computer aided design software have shown to give designers various ways to form their designs while finding ways to improve and create their work. These structures presented demonstrates how design software has help to achieve forms and functions that would be unachievable if computers werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t around as well as working methods to make them achievable.

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2.1 The Seed Cathedral Thomas Heatherwick

FIG7:THE SEED PAVILION

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FIG 8:FIBER OPTICS USED TO CREATE THE FACADE

FIG9: INTERIOR OF THE PAVILION SHOWING HOW THE EFFECTS FROM THE FIBER OPTICS

In today’s digital age, more buildings are designed using the aid of computers. They are many reasons for this as computers are able to produce logical conclusions and they hardly make any mathematical errors1 which are vital in its building process. Hence this ensures that buildings are able to be constructed properly and correctly. However with the current technology we have, we are able to find forms and create certain performances of how our design wants to be 2. This method is seen in the creation process of The Seed Cathedral by Thomas Heatherwick. During the design process, it was decided that the cathedral should have a textured façade which resembles grass 3. The cathedral has 60,000 fiber optic filaments with a section of 20mm square aluminum sleeves with measurements and location that has to be precise 4. In order to achieve this 3D computer modelling data were used which is then input into a controlled milling machine5. From this, modeling materials through computers are deemed to be powerful 6 as they were able to achieve the texture and performance that were desired and expected despite its complex form and intricate building system. This is due to the fact that we are able to know how to model out materials and simulate them throught these softwares to ensure its workability with the given condition, in this case fiber optics and aluminum together to function. This shows that with digital design, difficult and complex designs can be achieved as computers are able to make minimal errors and simulate the design before producing. With precise calculations and production that digital machines are able to produce complex and intricate designs are able to be built.

1 Yehuda E. Kalay, Architecture’s New Media: Principles, Theories, and Methods of Computer-Aided Design, (Cambridge, MA: MIT Press, 2004), p. 2 2Kalay, p. 7 3 Heatherwick Studio, UK Pavilion, (Heatherwick Studio, 2015),< http://www.heatherwick.com/uk-pavilion/> [accessed 15 March 2015] 4 Sebastian Jordona, UK Pavilion for Shanghai World Expo 2010 / Heatherwick Studio, (Archdaily,2010),<http://www.archdaily.com/58591/uk-pavilion-forshanghai-world-expo-2010-heatherwick-studio/> , [accessed 15 March 2015] 5 Jordona, <http://www.archdaily.com/58591/uk-pavilion-for-shanghai-world-expo-2010-heatherwick-studio/> 6 Rivka Oxman and Robert Oxman, Theories of the Digital in Architecture (London; New York: Routledge, 2014), p. 5 CONCEPTUALISATION 15

2.2 NINETY NINE FAILURES The University of Tokyo, Digital Fabrication Lab

FIG10: NINETY NINE FAULURES

Ninety Nine Failures by The University of Tokyo, Digital Fabrication Lab, is a pavilion developed by its student and teaching staff 1. It is stated that with fabrication design, modeling and tectonic potentials can be experimented and played around with2. By using computers and digital software the design team were able to come up with a design that that can provide spatial qualities of the pavilion and to fullfill its technical requirements 3 . They used a case base design method where using evaluation, solution and communication are vital in solving problems 4. In the construction of the pavilion, a series of prototyping was done through digital simulation and physical assembly to get the required structure as well as for its tedious tensegrity structure to have the ability to hold its shape using accurate and precise calculations that the computer has done.5 1Rafael A. Balboa and Ilze Paklone ,99 failures for one pavilion, (Domus, 2014) <http://www.domusweb.it/en/architecture/2014/01/07/99_failures_and_onepavilion.html> [accessed 15 March 2015]. 2 Rivka Oxman and Robert Oxman, Theories of the Digital in Architecture (London; New York: Routledge, 2014), p. 9. 3 Archdaily, Ninety Nine Failures / The University of Tokyo Digital Fabrication Lab, (Archdaily, 2014)< http://www.archdaily.com/469193/ ninety-nine-failures-the-university-of-tokyo-digital-fabricationFIG 11: INTERIOR OF THE PAVILION DISPLAYING ITS SHADOW EFFECT

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lab/>[accessed 15 March 2015]. 4 Yehuda E. Kalay, Architectureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s New Media: Principles, Theories, and Methods of Computer-Aided Design (Cambridge, MA: MIT Press, 2004), p. 2. 5Archdaily, < http://www.archdaily.com/469193/ninety-nine-failuresthe-university-of-tokyo-digital-fabrication-lab/>.

FIG 12: GENERATION OF THE PAVILION

Moreover, the students and staff have worked together as a group to tackle the problems by building a series of prototype and discussing while helping each other to create what the pavilion to what it is supposed to be. Through this, they were able to successfully execute building the final pavilion. With algorithmic scripting, aesthetic and tectonic possibilities can be done which is seen through this project6. Therefore, with digital design, we are able to create structures that werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t able to be produced back in the past since it would be difficult or even impossible to calculate and reassure that the structure would work as well as the possibility of creating intricate shapes with complex structures are possible.

FIG 13: PROTOTYPING THAT SHOWS HOW THE STRUCTURE WOULD BE BUILD

6 Oxman and Oxman, p. 5.

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A.3 COMPOSITION GENERATION

In composition generation, we look further into the ways on using digital tools in creating architecture. Algorithm design has open up many possibilities to achieve forms and functions with various types of materials and its performance. Furthermore, in the readings, it is clear that using algorithm and computer inputs have its complexity. These precedence demonstrates by using algorithms and data input, we can create architecture in a more efficient manner and the complexity computerized design which would require people with certain knowledge to apply to make thing achievable.

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3.1 White Gallery Installation Studio 400 In the reading by Peter, he mentions that through computational design, the ability to construct complex models of structures and receive feedback of their performances1. Hence, in creating a design, computers have the ability to simulate what your design will look like and how it can perform within that shape. In the White gallery installation by Studio 400, 20 students worked together to create a comfortable reading area made of rope, tape and plastic to create a flexible surface that hangs on the gallery 2. To understand what would be the best method to create the seating area, computers were used to create and prefabricate the hanging columns and infill panel3. Therefore, through using digital programs, they were able to achieve and generate the desired shape to create structure of the installation. In addition, the project was able to be completed quickly with the help of the computers to create the prefabricated elements 4. Hence, it is clear that with the usage of machines to generate the columns and create prefabricated modules, the Installation was able to be constructed quickly and performed well. This is due to the fact that the computers were able to give the students a clear picture on how the form will take and the best shape that the installation is able to withstand. As what Woodbury mentioned geometric systems are required in conventional system and that without precise size and location, the model would end up messy5 . With the usage of digital tools in creating architecture, we are able to ensure that the structure will work. By using such methods with computers that the students in Studio 400 has done, it also provides us with the abulity to produce architecture quickly which will also cost less. Thus, if this process is frequently done in the generating architecture, buildings now can be build faster and efficiently.

1 Peters Brady, ‘Computation Works: The Building of Algorithmic Thought’, Architectural Design’ in Computation Works: The Building of Algorithmic Thought, Architectural Design by Xavier De Kestelier and Brady Peters (2013), p. 15. 2 Alison Furuto, “White” Book Show Installation 2011 / Cal Poly San Luis Obispo Studio 400, (Archdaily,2012) <http://www.archdaily.com/222603/white-book-show-installation-2011-cal-poly-san-luis-obispostudio-400/>, [accessed 18 March 2015]. 3 Furuto, <http://www.archdaily.com/222603/white-book-show-installation-2011-cal-poly-san-luisobispo-studio-400/>. 4 Ibid. 5 Robert Woodbury,. ‘How Designer’s Use Parameters.’ in Theories of the Digital in Architecture, edited by Rivka Oxman and Robert Oxman, (2014), p.167.

FIG 15: USERS INTERACTING WITH THE SPACE

FIG 14:WHITE GALLERY INSTALLATION

FIG 16: EXPLORATIONS IN CREATING THE FORM CONCEPTUALISATION 21

WOHA

FIG 17: ILUMA SHOWING THE EFFECTS CREATED FROM THE CRYSTAL MESHES AT NIGHT

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FIG 18: CLOSE UP OF THE CRYSTAL MESHES

Iluma is a shopping mall designed by WOHA architects located in Singapore1. Its façade consists of Crystal Meshes that is customdesigned2. The architects worked together with two German based brothers who own an art, architecture and technology studio to come up with the façade which they wanted semi-robotic lighting systems to fit into the crystal skin that WOHA produced3. Furthermore, the crystal mesh are made from poly carbonated crystals that were programmed by the German firm, thismedia’s software and Swiss company, se Lightmangement Adaptoluz hardware 4. Having computational designers working in specialist group that are separated by design teams are done in which Brady mentioned through this method, it enables the designer to get access to knowledge that other specialist have5. Through this, the design is able to show complexity as architects might not have the knowledge to create algorithms on how the façade would work. Furthermore, to create such tedious and complex façade like what WOHA has done which has a complex shape to its facade which lights up as well as being built on a curved surface , it wouldn’t be possible not just with people with certain profession but mainly the computer. Minsky stated that computers are used to execute things that are complicated to the fact that even more complicate 6. Hence, with complicated design such as what Iluma has, it would not be possible without the usage of computers and expertise in certain design and manufacturing software.

1 Archdaily,Iluma / WOHA, (Archdaily,2010) <http://www.archdaily.com/59896/iluma-woha/>, [accessed 15 March 2015].

2 Archdaily,<http://www.archdaily.com/59896/iluma-woha/>. 3 Robert Such, Iluma, (Architectural Record, 2010), <http://archrecord.construction.com/projects/ lighting/archives/2010/05iluma/iluma-1.asp>, [accessed 15 March 2015]. 4 Ibid 5 Peters Brady, ‘Computation Works: The Building of Algorithmic Thought’, Architectural Design’ in Computation Works: The Building of Algorithmic Thought, Architectural Design by Xavier De Kestelier and Brady Peters (2013), p. 11. 6 Witold Rybczynski, Parametric Design: What’s Gotten Lost Amid the Algorithms, (Architect, 2013),<http://www.architectmagazine.com/design/parametric-design-whats-gotten-lost-amid-thealgorithms_o>, [accessed in 13 March 2015] .

FIG 19:BUILDIGN OF THE CRYSTAL

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A.4 CONCLUSION

CONCLUSION Architecture has changed over the years in design and building methods. Design methods have shifted from the works of traditional, cultural methods and perception and has shifted to a more computerized contemporary realm. It is clearly seen in recent years that in the building industry, using computers and digital processes has open up many possibilities in creating design in terms of shape, function and problem solving. In design futuring, methods and views on how we should design have been elaborated through â&#x20AC;&#x153;defuturingâ&#x20AC;? and using problems to create innovative works. Design computation discusses on how methods of creating forms and producing them are achievable through using architecture software. Using these software can open up ideas to creating interesting and logical design as well as giving the ability to excute the building on computers to know whether they are able to work or not. Moving to composition generation, it elaborates more the usage of digital processes and algorithm design. To achieve well-functioning works of art and structures, using algorithms and data input into computers plays a vital role to ensure that we are able to build them efficiently and successfully to what we expect. Eventhough, through these readings it is clear that in design, they are many ways for it to be done. Some prefer problem solving, learning from the past or using computers to create forms, design is clearly something that is broad and has no right or wrong methods. With the usage of parametric design and design software, the possibility to create various designs are achievable with sufficient knowledge and skills to execute them which has been proven through these precedence.

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A.5 LEARNING OUTCOMES

WHAT I HAVE LEARNED Through this assignment, it has opened my mind in terms on designing as well as parametric design. For example in design, we shouldn’t solely create designs based only on problem solving and creating a structure that would just appeal to the public eye but rather on its performance on how it affects the situation and environment. For example, from its design process to its contruction and then its performance. Therefore, in this subject’s design project, I will be able to integrate these methods into my design to create a structure that performs well. Initially, I was a bit hesitant on using software and fabrication methods as it seems complicated and difficult and whether or nor it might be useful or create constraints in terms of design. Through this assignment, I have understood that using software such as grasshopper, it not just only allows us to create complex designs or give us a way to ensure how our creations would look and perform but it will open us to more design possibilities which we can apply to this subject’s design assignment. Therefore, I have understood that I will be able to generate designs that can appeal to others but also have the ability to be build and perform well. I hope that I will be able to learn parametric design and hopefully obtain enough knowledge to create a good design this semester as well in my future projects.

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A.6 APPENDIX-ALGORITHMIC SKETCHES

Using control points and the loft command to create geometries of various shapes

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Utilizing vectors to create a series of extruding shape with random heights and positions.

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REFERENCES Reference List Archdaily, Ninety Nine Failures / The University of Tokyo Digital Fabrication Lab, (Archdaily, 2014)< http://www.archdaily. com/469193/ninety-nine-failures-the-university-of-tokyo-digital-fabrication-lab/>, [accessed 15 March 2015]. Balboa, Rafael A. and Paklone, Ilze ,99 failures for one pavilion, (Domus, 2014) <http://www.domusweb.it/ en/architecture/2014/01/07/99_failures_and_onepavilion.html>, [accessed 15 March 2015]. Dunne, Anthony & Raby, Fiona, Speculative Everything: Design Fiction, and Social Dreaming (MIT Press,2013). 1–9, 33–45 Franklin, Dennis, Yufutoku Restaurant by ISSHO Architects, (Architectism, 2013),<http://architectism. com/yufutoku-restaurant-issho-architects/ >[accessed 10 March 2015]. Fry, Tony, Design Futuring: Sustainability, Ethics and New Practice (Oxford: Berg.2008),1–16 Furuto, Alison, “White” Book Show Installation 2011 / Cal Poly San Luis Obispo Studio 400, (Archdaily,2012) <http://www.archdaily.com/222603/white-book-show-installation-2011-cal-polysan-luis-obispo-studio-400/>, [accessed 18 March 2015]. Heatherwick Studio, UK Pavilion, (Heatherwick Studio, 2015),< http://www.heatherwick.com/uk-pavilion/> [accessed 15 March 2015] Jordona, Sebastian, UK Pavilion for Shanghai World Expo 2010 / Heatherwick Studio, (Archdaily,2010),<http://www.archdaily. com/58591/uk-pavilion-for-shanghai-world-expo-2010-heatherwick-studio/> , [accessed 15 March 2015] Kalay, Yehuda E. , Architecture’s New Media: Principles, Theories, and Methods of Computer-Aided Design (Cambridge, MA: MIT Press.2004), 5–25 Lamster, Mark, Return of the Prodigal Son, (Metropolis,2006) <http://www.metropolismag. com/May-2006/Return-of-the-Prodigal-Son/>[accessed 15 March 2015]. Oxman, Rivka and Robert Oxman, eds (2014). Theories of the Digital in Architecture, (London; New York: Routledge.2014), 1–10 Peters, Brady. “Computation Works.”in Architectural Design (2013): 1–8. Rybcznski, Witold, Parametric Design: What’s Gotten Lost Amid the Algorithms, (Architect, 2013). Such, Robert, Iluma, (Architectural Record, 2010), <http://archrecord.construction. com/projects/lighting/archives/2010/05iluma/iluma-1.asp>, [accessed 15 March 2015]. Woodbury, Robert. “How Designer’s Use Parameters.” in Theories of the Digital in Architecture, edited by Rivka Oxman and Robert Oxman, (2014), 153–170 Zimmerman, Jan Quick Luck, (Mapolis, 2013)< http://architecture.mapolismagazin.com/ issho-architects-yufutoku-restaurant-tokyo> [accessed 10 March 2015].

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Image Reference FIG 1: Koichi Torimura, Yufutoku Restaurant <http://www.architonic.com/aisht/yufutokurestaurant-issho-architects-co-ltd-/5100203?> [accessed 15 March 2015]. FIG 2: Koichi Torimura, Yufutoku Restaurant <http://www.architonic.com/aisht/yufutokurestaurant-issho-architects-co-ltd-/5100203> [accessed 15 March 2015]. FIG 3: DAP, Ice Pavilion, Klyazminskoye Reservoir Resort, Alexander Brodsky, 2004< http:// www.architecturalpapers.ch/index.php?id=10> [accesed 15 March 2015]. FIG 4: Henry Stephens, Alexander Brodsky, Ice Pavilion<http://thepapercity.tumblr.com/post/38626095182/> [accessed 15 March 2015]. FIG 5:Henry Stephens, Alexander Brodsky, Ice Pavilion<http://thepapercity.tumblr.com/post/38626095182/> [accessed 15 March 2015]. FIG 6: DAP, Ice Pavilion, Klyazminskoye Reservoir Resort, Alexander Brodsky, 2004< http:// www.architecturalpapers.ch/index.php?id=10> [accesed 15 March 2015]. FIG 7:Heatherwick Studio, UK pavilion <http://www.heatherwick.com/uk-pavilion/> [accessed 16 March 2015]. FIG 8: Wolfgang Stuppy, Is That a Six-Story Dandelion? The UK Pavilion’s Seed Cathedral IS a Star Attraction at the Shanghai Expo<http:// www.audubon.org/news/is-six-story-dandelion-uk-pavilions-seed-cathedral-star-attraction-shanghai-expo> [accessd 17 March 2015]. FIG 9:Wolfgang Stuppy, Is That a Six-Story Dandelion? The UK Pavilion’s Seed Cathedral IS a Star Attraction at the Shanghai Expo<http:// www.audubon.org/news/is-six-story-dandelion-uk-pavilions-seed-cathedral-star-attraction-shanghai-expo> [accessd 17 March 2015]. FIG 10:Archdaily, Ninety Nine Failures/ The University of Tokyo Digital Fabrication Lab <http://www.archdaily. com/469193/ninety-nine-failures-the-university-of-tokyo-digital-fabrication-lab/> [accessed 17 March 2015]. FIG 11: Archdaily, Ninety Nine Failures/ The University of Tokyo Digital Fabrication Lab <http://www.archdaily. com/469193/ninety-nine-failures-the-university-of-tokyo-digital-fabrication-lab/> [accessed 17 March 2015]. FIG 12: Archdaily, Ninety Nine Failures/ The University of Tokyo Digital Fabrication Lab <http://www.archdaily. com/469193/ninety-nine-failures-the-university-of-tokyo-digital-fabrication-lab/> [accessed 17 March 2015]. FIG 13: Archdaily, Ninety Nine Failures/ The University of Tokyo Digital Fabrication Lab <http://www.archdaily. com/469193/ninety-nine-failures-the-university-of-tokyo-digital-fabrication-lab/> [accessed 17 March 2015]. FIG 14:Archdaily, “White” Book Show Installation 2011/ Cal Poly San Luis Obipso Studio 400<http://www.archdaily. com/222603/white-book-show-installation-2011-cal-poly-san-luis-obispo-studio-400/> [accessed 18 March 2015]. FIG 14:Archdaily, “White” Book Show Installation 2011/ Cal Poly San Luis Obipso Studio 400<http://www.archdaily. com/222603/white-book-show-installation-2011-cal-poly-san-luis-obispo-studio-400/> [accessed 18 March 2015]. FIG 14:Archdaily, “White” Book Show Installation 2011/ Cal Poly San Luis Obipso Studio 400<http://www.archdaily. com/222603/white-book-show-installation-2011-cal-poly-san-luis-obispo-studio-400/> [accessed 18 March 2015]. FIG 17:OpenBuildings, iluma, Singapore<http://openbuildings.com/buildings/iluma-singapore-profile-5145#> [accessed 18 March 2015] FIG 18: OpenBuildings, iluma, Singapore<http://openbuildings.com/buildings/iluma-singapore-profile-5145#> [accessed 18 March 2015] FIG 19:Aartlife, Crystal Mesh in Singapore <http://aartlife.com/design/crystal-mesh-in-singapore/>[accessed 15 March 2015].

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PART B: CRITERIA DESIGN

B.1 RESEARCH FIELD

Criteria Design

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Criteria Design

STRUCTURAL PERFORMANCE Structure plays a pivotal role in creating architecture. Together with materials and tectonics, structures are able to create a wide array of volume, shapes, looks and composition1 (Klinger,6). Structures are easily overlooked in parametric design as parametric design is often associated with the idea of creating complex, free flowing geometry and is often prioritise in parametric design. However, from the intricate and complicated forms designed, the understanding on how the structure works and its buidability is paramount. Therefore, it is important require the knowledge on how the architecture is able to hold its shape through structure. Structural properties plays an important role in everyday building. However, structures are not just a method to be used in construction for the purpose of being able to construct something without falling but can be used in design to create intricate design that looks modern and gravity defying if the principals are done correctly 2(Brady, pg3). Creating surfaces such as a geodesic dome would require the understand the mechanism to build it and with grasshopper we are able to create the form and structure through classical mathematical understanding and learning 3(woodbury, 166). Hence, using algorithms and design software’s such as grasshopper are considered important in understanding structures to create and design complex forms.

1 Branko Kolarevic and Kevin R. Klinger, eds. Manufacturing Material Effects: Rethinking Design and Making in Architecture (New York; London: Routledge,2008), p 6

2 Peters Brady, ‘Computation Works: The Building of Algorithmic Thought’, Architectural Design’ in Computation Works: The Building of Algorithmic Thought, Architectural Design by Xavier De Kestelier and Brady Peters (2013), p. 3

3 Robert Woodbury,. ‘How Designer’s Use Parameters.’ in Theories of the Digital in Architecture, edited by Rivka Oxman and Robert Oxman, (2014), p.166

CONCEPTUALISATION 33

JAPAN PAVILION Shigeru Ban

Shigeru Ban’s Japan Pavilion is a creation that depicts the innovation of using cheap materials in this case paper tubes, to create a durable structure based on the materials, structural properties and the method of construction. The pavilion uses a grid, lattice, waffle system that curves into a tunnel like shape. Despite, the material and a simple looking structure, creating a curved shaped out of the linear materials were deemed difficult. However, with understanding on the structure and construction method, the curve like shape was achieved. The structure was built by forming threedimensional grids by having the intersection pushed between two paper tubes at an angle that can achieve a suitable amount of tension for the structure to stand 1. Furthermore, the joints used was a simple joint that enables the paper tube to rotate at a gentle movement 2. This creation has proven that with even the simplest material and joining system, we are still able to create architecture as its finest and modern with the right structural system. To achieve this system, it is clear that computation is paramount in the construction of this building. With algorithms, creating complex forms while solving buildability problems 3(peters,10). Eventhough the structure may seem to be a lattice work which seems less complex or organic compared to other parametric design works, the construction and understanding the property of its structure is complex. Therefore, parametric may not just mean creating organic patterns but also creating methods on how to build an architecture with a unique form. The seemingly simple structure but complex building properties of this case study seems really interesting and it would be interesting to explore more on assembling methods using grasshopper. z

1 AD Editorial Team, A selection of Shigeru Ban’s Best Work, (Archdaily,2012) <http://www.archdaily.com/489222/a-selection-of-shigeru-ban-s-best-work/>, [accessed 30 March 2015]. 2 AD Editorial Team, <http://www.archdaily.com/489222/a-selection-of-shigeru-ban-s-best-work/>. 3 Peters Brady, ‘Computation Works: The Building of Algorithmic Thought’, Architectural Design’ in Computation Works: The Building of Algorithmic Thought, Architectural Design by Xavier De Kestelier and Brady Peters (2013), p. 10.

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FIG 1: JAPAN PAVILION

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KING CROSS STATION John McAslan

The renovated section of the Western Concourse in the King Cross Station shows the usage of parametric design in its façade. The façade of the section uses a steel structure that overlaps using a criss-cross pattern which then unfurls like a tree to form columns that leads down to the working space1 . The concourse spans at a whopping 7,500square meters which has become Europe’s largest single-span station structure 2. Hence, to support such a large spanning façade, 17 of it’s tree like columns are required to hold up the structure3. As mentioned by Klinger the shape, composition, and appearance 1 Dezeen, Western Concourse at King’s Cross by John McAslan+Partners, (Dezeen,2012) < http://www. dezeen.com/2012/03/14/western-concourse-at-kings-cross-by-john-mcaslan-partners/> [accessed 30 March 2015]. 2 Dezeen, < http://www.dezeen.com/2012/03/14/western-concourse-at-kings-cross-by-john-mcaslanpartners/> 3 Dezeen, < http://www.dezeen.com/2012/03/14/western-concourse-at-kings-cross-by-john-mcaslanpartners/> 36

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FIG 2: WESTERN CONCOURSE FACADE

FIG 3: TREE LIKE COLUMNS

of a material is able for its properties to be altered through digital methods . Hence, in the King Cross station where a conventional steel is able to be altered to create curved like surface and forms shape using to create tree like columns shows the possibility of how computation can develop organic from using rigid structures. Without the usage of the computers, this would not be possible. Furthermore, the materiality of the structure used to create this lattice like pattern is important in the construction in order for the structure to hold itself and not just depend on the columns as its support. By using computers, we are able to develop new techniques on how we can craft the material that utilises its quality to build the desired affect 5In this case, using the properties of steel to bend and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s strong tensile strength to form the faĂ§ade of the station. From this precedence, using computers to fabricate a material system to 4

4 Branko Kolarevic and Kevin R. Klinger, eds. Manufacturing Material Effects: Rethinking Design and Making in Architecture (New York; London: Routledge,2008), p 7.

5 Kolarevic and Klinger, p. 7

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B.2 CASE STUDY 1.0

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FIG 4: EXAMPLE OF A LATTICE USED AS A FACADE

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LATTICE Following up from the case studies, it is clear that the structure of both the Japan Pavilion and King Cross Station utilises lattices in their design. Despite lattice usually being considered a simple method of connecting long stream rigid materials which are often seen in fundamental structures in construction, achieving curved and complex shapes is proven to be achievable with this method with computational methods. Therefore we are able to develop this definition to create constructions that not just helps in structural purpose but also aesthetic. Therefore with the help of digital softwares such as grasshopper we are able to create and array of forms and shapes using this simple structure and experiment with it with the types of materials that can be used.

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ITERATIONS create various looks.

1. AMOUNT OF POINTS

After figuring and creating the basic definition for creating a lattice structure, the amont of points is played around with to

2. INCORPORATING CURVES Using curved structures as the main components is used. This gives the lattice strucure a more organic look.

3. ADDING MORE POINTS TO CREATE OVERLAPPING STRUCTURES By adding more points to create more linear structures gives the ability to create more patterns out from a simple grid. Furtheremore by joining another structure ontop of it more complex patterns can be formed.

4. COMBINING NEW OR ANOTHER MATERIAL SYSTEM

Besides using rectangular structures to create a waffle structure, incorporating a new material such as pipes is implemented. It gives the structure a more hybrid

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and unique look to it.

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SELECTION CRITERIA In the folowing selection, it was sone by selecting the most successful geometries that still has not loose its part as a s structural property and still have aestherics properties to it. From this, selecting iterations that seems to be able to hold up heavy laofs and still have connections among one another is considered. The sekextion critirea was bsed on what if these structures were buit in real life and will it still have itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s performance quality as well as its aestherics looks. In the end, these final outcomes were selected because of the options ir provide to the type of materials which could be applied as a structural system but also the how ir will be used as a facade as well. This matrix aims to understand how each members work together to create a structure and also how irt would work with other materials and shapes.

1. This iteration was chosen die the fact that the closele connected and high density of the pattern created by the lattice is visible. This showcases the curve structure more as the distacnce and izes of teh grid creates such look.

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2. The incorporation of curved structure as a supporting membet of the lattice gives the overall structure a unique look as it blends the usage of straight materials with curved shaped materal. Furthermore, it seems interesting on how a curved

3. This iteration incorporates two different gepmetrical members stacked upon one another. In addition, the different sizes and desntiy of grids which overlaps one antoher creates and interesting and complex pattern

4.From the previous interatio where two differnt geometry members are stacked upon one another. BUt whe n joining both together with the same system cteates a more uniques form as the intersetoon with difernt desnisties somehowe

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B.3 CASE STUDY 2.0

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MANY SMALL CUBES INTALLATION SOU FUIMOTO

Many stacked cubes is an installation by Soul Fujimoto located in Paris. It is composed of suspended metal cubes and plants1 (dezeen) which features the boxes being stacked among one another while some filled with plants and small trees. The cubes are connected either just on one corner or one edge of the tip of the cube where together they create a structure with seemingly random cantilevers2. According to Fujimoto the stability of the cubes are carefully designed and positioned where each tree plays a role to the overall stability 3. This shows how structure plays an important role in achieving its form as the stability of the cubes to stay cantilevered on the cubes is paramount in this installation. The method on connecting these cubes are able to be connected to the sides while staying while achieving the image and concept on how the cubes seems to floating. Despite using simple geometries in this case cubes, a complex and parametric form is a able to be achieved through understanding how the cubes can be connected at a very small section of one another while being durable to achieve the light and floating cubes appearance. One of the interesting apart from the structure that I would like to integrate into my design from this case study is its usage. The idea that Fujimoto applies of carefully thinking about the structure and connections to create its overall form which gives the sense of randomness and lightness while bringing humans closer to nature. Furthermore, it was mentioned that with the plants planted around the trees, the local birds and bees make their home here while they can start building their habitats there 4. With the aspect of planting trees into the installation together with its random and light weight structure, it would be interesting to apply this concept into my design where humans and nature can somehow interact with nature through a structure.

1 Dezeen, Sou Fujimoto stacks aluminium boxes to formâ&#x20AC;&#x153;nomadicâ&#x20AC;? house installation in Paris (Dezeen, 2014), < http://www.dezeen. com/2014/10/22/sou-fujimoto-many-small-cubes-installation-paris-jardins-des-tuileries-fiac-art-fair/> ,(accessed, 10 April, 2015). 2 Dezeen, < http://www.dezeen.com/2014/10/22/sou-fujimoto-many-small-cubes-installation-paris-jardins-des-tuileries-fiac-artfair/>

z3 Dezeen, fair/>

< http://www.dezeen.com/2014/10/22/sou-fujimoto-many-small-cubes-installation-paris-jardins-des-tuileries-fiac-art-

4 Dezeen, < http://www.dezeen.com/2014/10/22/sou-fujimoto-many-small-cubes-installation-paris-jardins-des-tuileries-fiac-artfair/>

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FIG 5: CUBE INSTALLATION

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REVERSE ENGINEERING PROCESS

SPECULATION PTOVESS OF CREATING DEFINITION SIMILAR TO THE ORIGINAL DESIGN To figure out how to create a definition to reverse engineer this structure, the precedent is darefully looked at and the structure is studied and tried to make sense so that it can be applied in grasshopper. Through a series of finding definitions from using populate 3d to create random cubes and creating individual cubes while stackng them up, the most effiecient way to reverse w=engineer this project is buy merging two stacks of cube and randomly taking out cubes and hollowing it to create the form.z

1. Firstly, a base for the shape is needed. In the installion case, a cubed shaped base seems to be the right path to start with.

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2. The cubes are then randomly removed to the desired form

3. By using the measurements from the first cube, the larger cubes are then divided into smaller pieces where the smaller cubes would stack on top of the cube.

4. Similarly to the larger cubes, the smaller cubes are then removed

4. Both cubes are merged together. In this case, overlapping or intersecting cubes are removed,

5. To form desired shape, cubes are the nremoved.z

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PROCESS OF DEFINITION 1. Creating a stack of cubes REC GRID

MOVE

CAP

EXTRUDE

SERIES

UNIT Z

2. Using Jitter and Random reduce to randomly remove cubes REC GRID

EXTRUDE

CAP

MOVE

SERIES

UNIT Z

MERGE

RANDOM REDUCE

JITTER CULL INDEX

3. Creating a smaller stack of cubes LIST ITEM

SPLIT LIST

DEBREP

EDGES

LIST ITEM

LINE MERGE

SURFACE SPLIT

EXTRUDE

LIST ITEM LIST ITEM

LINE

4. Randomly reducing and removing cubes

MERGE

RANDOM REDUCE

GEOMETRY

5. Merge the cubes together BREP GEOMETRY CULL INDEX

6. Removing unwanted cubes to form desired form.

GEOMETRY

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CULL INDEX

MERGE

SPLIT LIST BREP

FINAL OUTCOME The final outcome seems similar to the original installation. However, they are still a few things that differs from the original installation such as the sizes of the cubes and the placement of the cube might nort be placed exactly to what Fujimoto designed. However, the random stacked cubes cantilievered among one another is achieved. Unfortunately in thid process, structural properties was not look into detail at as the understanding on forces or the requirement to prototype a structure is required to understand the stability and overall structure of this creation.

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B.4 TECHNIQUE DEVELOPMENT

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FURTHER EXPLORATION Species 1:

Using the same definition but by incorporating spheres into the cube and creating a variation of sizes to it. PLAN

FRONT

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PLAN

FRONT

Species 2 : The addition of other shapes such as rectangles and triangles are merged into the cube. Using a similar definition, they are then randomly reduced. To create the rectangles, rectangles are extruded up similarly to how the cubes were formed. For the triangles, the definition which was used PLAN

FRONT

PLAN

FRONT

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Species 3: Instead of starting with a square grid to form the the main structure, creating a curved surface was used. by creating a surface using interpolate lines, cubes were built up from the surface through a similar method from the original definiton. A similar definition was done to create the smaller cubes. The slider on how to radomly reduce it is done. PLAN

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FRONT

PLAN

FRONT

Species 4: Instead of starting with a square grid to form the the main structure and shapes, curved surface were used similarly to species 3. However, various types of curves were experimented with. PLAN

FRONT

PLAN

FRONT

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Species 5: In this species, a few of the deifinitions are copied and paste, then each of them are moved to create a more organic form. PLAN

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FRONT

PLAN

FRONT

SELECTION CRITERIA This iteration is chosen due to the fact that amonf these in the species of iteration, the form outputted from the definitions give a unique shape.

This iteration is chosen due to the fact that amonf these in the species of iteration, the form outputted from the definitions give a unique shape.

This iteration still mintains itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s boxy look from the front eventhough the overall shape in plan is curved. Furthermore it has a sense of lightness to it due to the dispersion of cubes.

The usage of various hapes from cubes, rectangles and triangles gives this iteration a difd=ferent feeling from the original definition. Even though it still remains boxy the randomness of dispersion of shapes gives a sense of curiosioty on how tthe strucutre are stacked

The invorporation of spheres together with cubes ar different shape gives the overall structure a unique and aline like look. It moves away from the harmony of cube and cuboidal form.

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B.5 TECHNIQUE PROTOTYPE

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PROTOTYPING Throughout this process of prototyping, the structure, construction aso that the it is structurally stable when the cibes are joined ar the end or tips of one another. As structure plays an important role in this system, a series of prototypes is required to be tested to find the best method to join. Furthermore, appearance is highly soughted in this process.. The importance of achieving a form where the cubes will join amoung one another is considered. Furthermore, another challenge that is pcess has posed in temrs of structure

PROTOTYPE 1

A quick prototype was done to test how the cubes would be assembled if this definition was built in real life. This protypes looks at stacking up boxes and trying to cantalieve the boxes on top of another using glue as the main joint. However in this process, joining of the cubes was difficult as it was difficult as it was not stable. Furtheremore due to the cubes having to move further into the cube, it spoils the sense of creating the float like cube achieved in Fujimotoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work Hence, this protype is deemed unsucessful..

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Joining method Despte having the first prototype not fullfilling the required requiremnts to create cubes stacked or joined at the edge of one another a thorough look and investigation on how the cubes can be joined together structurally and efficiently. While looking closely to the many stack cube installation, it was shown that some parts were joined by cutting nothches into the cubes. Therefore, this techniques is prototyped to test whether it would be able to hold and cantelivers many cube.

1. At one edge of the cube, a thin nothch is cut into it,

The notch helps to join the cube to one antoher easily. This is convenient and structrally stable in many ways as the notch gives and easier assembly method and with a wider surface to stick onto the other cube, it gives the joint a stronger joining system.

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PROTOTYPE 2

During the creation of this prototype, the notch for all of the cubes were the same size. This gavea dissatisfaction outcome as it clearly shows that the cubes are fixed into the other cube. This gets rid of the light structure of how the cubes are assembled together.

PROTOTYPE 3

From the previous prototype, the opposite is done where all the notches are made really small. It does improve the lightness and floating cantiieve structure of the cube, however structurally it might not hold up larfger cubes especailly when they are meant to bejoin at the vertices of the cube.

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PROTOTYPE 4 and 5

From the previous prototypes done, by trying to create suitable size notches for each cube was done. The results prove fairly succesful. Eventhough some parts where a large or long member of cubes are cantelieved togetrher. Itdoes not seem stable. However, the usage of notches in building these kind of structures seems successful and realiable. To firther imporve this structure further, materiality and strentgh of joint should be investigated.

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B.6 TECHNIQUE PROPOSAL

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MERRI CREEK SITE

Merri Creek Context The Merri Creek is a river that runs for approximately 70 kms, beginning near Heathcote Junction, a small town on Melbourne’s northern outskirts, and joining the Yarra River at Dight’s fall, Collingwood. It holds the habitat for a variety of indigenous flora and fauna species over it’s diverse landscape filled with various geology planes and soils as well as aboriginal and historic heritage. Merri Creek Management Committee (MCMC) which comes from the six municipalities and a Friends group stresses on the importance of sustainability along the creek. Where indigenous vegetation remains on the banks of the waterways it should be retained. Areas of reasonably intact riparian scrub and grassy woodland/ floodplain areas along the middle to upper reaches of Merri Creek provide a strong basis for improving the riparian and stream corridor1. Furthermore, every month, friends would organise events to promote sustainability of the creek such as barbeques, weeding and replanting indigenous vegetation.Therefore, with the importance of sustainability applied to this site, incorporating the idea of sustainability and community could be integrated into the design.

Merri Creek Management Committee, About Us (Merri Crek Management Committee, 2015), < http://www.mcmc.org.au/ index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=78&Itemid=184> ,(accessed, 20 April, 2015). 70

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DESIGN PROPOSAL AND SITE SELCTION OVERVIEW In this design, the notion of the nature of the environmetn, importance of sustainability and community in the area was looked into. As throughout the Merri Creek River, environmetla problems have arised and organisations such as Friends of Merri Creek are trying to find ways to advocate and solve this issue. Therefore, by having a design that human can interact with nature with as well as contributing to part of sustainability was look into. As seen in the diagram, the site chosen contains densely pack vegetationsa and fauna as well as human interaction. With sufficient human , flora and fauna population, the site deems to be suitable venue for the design as humans and nature could interact with one another easily.

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FORM FINDING

LANDFORM SELECTION As mentioned previously, the idea of having human experience and nature integrating together, selecting a site that would be appropriate is considered. Therefore, the density of nature and the usage by humans of the area was looked at. The area that I have selected have a variety of species of plants living there as well as human activities. Furthermore, the landform which slopes down to the river gives the site a unique shape which might help by giving experiences to the users who might use the site. In addition, it would be useful for users to interact not with just species that lives on land but also species that lives in the water. In this series of form finding for resultant landform, the smoothness of the surface and the gradients of the slope was played with. It was interesting to see the variation of the gradient and the smoothness of the surface would affect the depression of the river which can help to looks at the performance of the site at a longer time span to see how it might affect the design or even the users. With a greater understanding on how the slopes in the landform work, it might be considered and helpful to generates the form of the design.

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APPLICATIONS TO GRASSHOPPER These series of exploration plays around with the gradient and surfaces of th landform. This was done to explodre and get ideas on how the design would interact with th

USING SLIDERS TO SEE THE DEGRADATION OF SITE

CONTROLLING DOMANS AND POINTS TO SHOW THE SHAPE OF THE LANDSCAPE

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DESIGN DEVELOPMENT

AREA SELECTION

CONSIDERING SITE CIRCULAT

With the idea of trying to create a space where humans can interact with nature, the sit chosen was an area that is densely populated with natural organism but still relatively close to human amenities where people will usually use. Furthermore, it will interact with various parts of the environment such as the sloping of the topography and the river. This features would be interesting for me to create by design as it will enable the users to interact with various parts of the environment.

As mentioned previously where having h would be useful for the design, the area busy or in use. This is aspect is highly c since the area chosen is rather hidden, w it is important to have users to find easi nearby the place. Hence, a method for h is when the cyclist can stop by and use the site selected is hardly in use, with th from cars, trains and bikes can spot the

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TION (HUMAN INTERACTION)

VEGETATION AND NATURAL ASPECTS

human activities nearby the area has surroundings that are moderately considered due to the fact that when building a structure there, ily. Merri Creek Trail for cycling is humans to interact with the site the place to rest. Furthermore as he design built there, passerbys e structure and use the site.

As vegetation and the river plays and important role in the ecosystem, as by having these it will create a healthy ecosystems as faunas are able to interact with the nature. Therefore when considering that the design will enable humans to experience the natural environment, choosing a place that is dense with vegetation is important to ensure that the design will also interact with the environment.

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DESIGN PROPOSAL

Designing for humans and nature interaction Many government and organization stresses on the value of preservation and sustainability of the river and surrounding are that is rich with natural beings. In order to help to advocate this notion, I feel that bringing humans closer to nature could be a way to give awareness to this situation. Therefore in this design proposal, I would like propose an idea that revolves around how humans can interact with nature through the uses of the site and landscape. These ideas came from the research on the Merri Creek as well as observations around the site. As they are many built paths and roads and natural paths that are hidden and created from the landscape and vegetation, building a structure that flows within this area could be an idea to use to draw people to venture into the section where natural organisms are mostly located at. With the intention of the design to draw human closer to nature, the usage, function as well as the spatial experience are looked into.

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B.7 LEARNING OBJECTIVES AND OUTCOMES

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OUTCOME Overall, for this part of the assignment, it has proved to me fairly productive and quite challenging. The part of getting to push us to explore and use grasshopper on our own especially in the reverse engineering process deemed to be useful and challenging. At the same time I was able to improve my understanding on grasshopper better and getting a grasp of using this software as this part requires us to push ourselves to learn and figure out algorithms to create and play around with a definition. This part has not just enabled me to learn about using grasshopper but also thinking and investigating on how buildings are built. Generally, most people would just use grasshopper to find forms and create aesthetic concentrated structures which they prefer. But I have come to realise that grasshopper is also a learning tool that can push us to understand the buidability of what we create and the possibilities of it. On the other hand, I did feel quite constraint as the main focus of this assignment was to create forms using a definition and play around with it. In this process, I did find it a little hard to push myself further to learn more about grasshopper as I had to use work on exploring and creating the definition more rather than pushing myself to find more ways to create or play around with another definition. The result of this assignment is fairly satisfying in opinion. However, I would wish that I could have pushed myself more such as testing different plugins as well as think more on trying to build a definition. For the next part, I will definitely explore more on grasshopper and create challenging forms.

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LEARNING OBJECTIVES Studio Air was set up with a number of objectives to challenge and introduce students to learn parametric design software and to think critically in the process of using the program at the same time creating designs. For the past few weeks, I believe that I have reached a few objectives that this subject aims to get us at Objective 1. “interrogat[ing] a brief” by considering the process of brief formation in the age of optioneering. In this subject, having to work at a broad brief was deemed challenging. However, through research, site visits enabled me to start produce a brief. The usage of grasshopper may have also helped to consider the brief. This is done when creating forms and shapes using the software which enabled me to get ideas on how the form produce can interact with the site while helping to produce a brief. Objective 3. developing “skills in various three dimensional media” By using grasshopper to study and create our precedence project, it has allowed me to study and investigate a precedents further by understanding on how it can be built and so. From this, I was able to understand the possibilities of fabricating and prototyping the precedent. Furthermore, it requires me to use fablab to enable me to create the protypes at a faster pace.

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B.8 ALGORITHMIC SKETCHES

DETAILED DESIGN

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1. EXPLORATION WITH CULLING

CONCEPTUALISATION

2. ATTRACTOR LINES

3. CURVED SHAPED WALLS WITH SUPPORTING STRUCTURES

4. GRIDSHELLS

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REFERENCE LIST Branko Kolarevic and Kevin R. Klinger, eds. Manufacturing Material Effects: Rethinking Design and Making in Architecture (New York; London: Routledge,2008), Dezeen, Sou Fujimoto stacks aluminium boxes to form“nomadic” house installation in Paris (Dezeen, 2014), < http://www.dezeen.com/2014/10/22/sou-fujimoto-many-small-cubesinstallation-paris-jardins-des-tuileries-fiac-art-fair/> ,(accessed, 10 April, 2015). Dezeen, Western Concourse at King’s Cross by John McAslan+Partners, (Dezeen,2012) < http://www.dezeen. com/2012/03/14/western-concourse-at-kings-cross-by-john-mcaslan-partners/> [accessed 30 March 2015]. Peters Brady, ‘Computation Works: The Building of Algorithmic Thought’, Architectural Design’ in Computation Works: The Building of Algorithmic Thought, Architectural Design by Xavier De Kestelier and Brady Peters (2013). Robert Woodbury,. ‘How Designer’s Use Parameters.’ in Theories of the Digital in Architecture, edited by Rivka Oxman and Robert Oxman, (2014),

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PART C:DETAILED DESIGN

C.1 DESIGN CONCEPT

CONCEPTUALISATION

DETAILED DESIGN

THE CONCEPT

The concept of this project aims to get humans to explore and experience aspects of Merri Creekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural environment, landform, river and flora and fauna . Merri Creek has played a huge role to the surrounding landscape, hydrology, geology and primarily its ecosystem which is rich in flora and fauna typically its indigenous species. From this, sustainability and preservation of the ecosystem has been placed in great importance to the community and government of the area. Government and councils have tried to advocate this notion through activities and building amenities such as bike paths so that humans can somehow interact with nature apart from always being surrounded by the concrete jungle they always inhabit. This project started from choosing a site that is rich with the natural ecosystem of the creek surrounded by an area that is dense with human activities. Therefore, with such characeteristics on the chosen site,having the idea of a way where human presence and activities can be integrated together with nature is achievable. Additionally, by using the surrounding context of landform, trees and human activities, it has generated interesting studies to which humans circulates around the site that has hardly been touched. This concept would achieve Merri Creekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s objective in having more humans to interact and explore more with the surrounding nature.

DETAILED DESIGN

CHOSEN SITE

DETAILED DESIGN

FORM FINDING AND DESIGNING WITHLANDSCAPE ANALYSIS ECOLOGY

1. PLANTS AND TREES

2. LOCATION OF INDIGENEOUS PLANTS

HUMAN ACTIVITIES AND INFRASTRUCTURES

1. TRAFFIC ROADS

DETAILED DESIGN

2. TRAIN TRACKS

By looking and studying the surrounding context of the area, having an idea on how the users will interact with the project can be visualized. The area chosen is at an area dense with greeneries and a fair amount of human usage which means that there is ways to create interaction with the ecosystem and humans. Through form finding, understanding the landscape and topography is looked into. By looking at the unique landform, it could give a better understanding on the spatial movements of the users. The circulation and usage of areas by people in the area is looked into as well. Therefore, having sites that are barely uncirculated and area dense with trees are explored to find how it could be used as a site to build the final design.

2. RIVER/HYDROLOGY

3. RESERVE

3. BIKE PATHS

4. HUMAN CIRCULATION OR DETAILED DESIGN

FORM FINDING WITH GRASSHOPPER To find potential shapes and paths that would be suitable for the project, the plug-in the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Shortest walkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; is used. With this, it is able to generate the shortest paths or route based on the topography and the highest point of the site. Through playing around with various possibilities, using the best location together with information from the landscape analysis is use to generate the final placement of the site. Furthermore, the curves generated are also used to form the shape of the design.

DETAILED DESIGN

POTENTIAL PATHS

FINAL SHAPE AND PLACEMENT

DETAILED DESIGN

INTERNAL EXPERIENCE

ACHIEVING NATURAL EXPERIENCE

RANDOM EXTRUSIONS To give the users a unique spatial experience, by randomly extruding the boxes inwards gives the structure a textured element to the design. This will provide the users the experience of walking through a forest of different sized boxes, Furthermore, these structures can act as an interactive element as people can use these extruded boxes as chairs.

USING EXTRUDED MODULESAS CHAIRS

DETAILED DESIGN

WALL PATTERNING Trying to create a manmade path that is able to provide users the experience of being part of nature is carefully thought of. Although this design is located at a surrounding rich in ecology however the openings created might not be enough to create the lightness and visibility of the ecology around it. Therefore, trying to create more openings that gives the structure a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;lightnessâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and more visibility to the natural surrounding can be done through creating patterned perforations through the structural blocks. To generate the pattern, the patterned produced by the branching of the trees when seen from below is taken as guide.

FIG1: THE PATTERN FORMED FROM THE BRANCHING OF TREES ARE USE TO GENERATE THE PATTHERN

DETAILED DESIGN

GROWING CREEPER OR CLIMBING PLANTS ALONG THE WALL

Even though, the structure is built at a surrounding covered with vegetation but to enhance the experience for users to be able to interact with plants and provide a ‘forest’ feel to it, growing plants along the structure can be done to achieve this. With the perforations from the patterns created on the walls which gives the walls the mesh or lattice features along with the arch shaped of the path that makes it suitable for climbers and scramblers to grow along it1 Indigenous creeper plants that grows along Merri creek are looked into as potential plants that could be grown on the design.

POTENTIAL PLANTS TO BE USED

FIG 2: ROUNDED MOON-FLOWER

FIG 3: GYCINE

Rounded Moon-flower 2

Variable Glycine 3

Form & Flowers: Perennial, spreading, succulent plant. Pink or magenta daisy-like flowers with white centresappear in spring and summer. Foliage can vary from greento purple.

Form & Flowers: Perennial, creeping groundcover with three-lobed leaves. Spikes of blue-purple peashaped flowers appear in summer and autumn.

Situation: Open position; full sun; tolerates most soils.

Comments: Drought tolerant once established; tolerates semi-shade. Dislikes poor drainage. Frost sensitive.Suited to rockeries. Wildlife: Food plant for butterfly caterpillars. 1 Australian National Botanic Gardens, Information about Australia’s Flora and Growing Native Plants, <http:// www.anbg.gov.au/climbers/>, [accessed, 1 June 2015] 2 City of Yarra, Gardening with Native Plants in Yarra, (Melbourne, City 3 City of Yarra, p. 25

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4 City of Yarra, p. 25 5 City of Yarra, p. 25

of Yarra, 2001), p. 25

Characteristics to be taken into consideration when choosing the species of plants to grow on it are itcan live with minimal water and susceptible to plenty of exposure from the sun as the plants are required to grow along the structure where obtaining water might be difficult and are under the exposure of the sun at all times during the day. Apart from this, considering on how the plants will affect the aesthetics and provides a relationship with the natural environment is also an important feature. Plants that can produces flowers and various colours are able to provide a vibrant look to it which can make it more aesthetically pleasing. Climbers that can attract animals such as birds and insect will be able to provide habitats for these creatures and also able to give users the experience of seeing how the fauna could interact with these plants.

FIG 4: CLE,MATIS

FIG5: PINK BINDWEED

Small-leaved Clematis 4

Pink Bindweed 5

Form & Flowers: Perennial climber with slender stems and oblong, lobed leaves. Produces various cream-coloured starshaped flowers appear in late winterto spring. Seedheads are fluffy and decorative.

Form & Flowers: Perennial, delicate prostrate or climbing plant with narrow, lobed leaves. Rosy pink, shallow flowers appear in spring and summer. Flowers open in bright sunlight and close in darker conditions.

Characteristics: Hardy and tolerant of drought, full sun andfull shade. Climbs up trees but does not damage them.

Comments: Drought tolerant; dislikes poor drainage.Fast-growing. Suited to containers.

Wildlife: Birds use fluffy seedheads to line nests. DETAILED DESIGN

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HOW IT WORKS

ROUTE TO DIFFERENT SITES

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DIFFERENT FUNCTION

OVERALL INTERACTION

PATH

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DESIGN PROCESS 1. CURVE

4. CULL DESIRED SECTION

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2. CREATE ARCS TO FORM

5. EXTRUDE SQU RECTANGLES R

M A TUNNEL

UARES AND RANDOMLY

3. FORM SQUARES AND RECGTANGLES

6. APPLY PATTERN

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DEFINITION MAIN STRUCTURE

PO CURVE

PREP FRAME

DECOMPOSE ARC

LOFT

DIVIDE CURVE

DIVISION CONSTRUCT DOMAIN

ADDITION

DIVIDE DOMAIN2

CANOPY SURFACE

ISOTRIM

PATCH EVALUATE

NUMBER

MOVE

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DIVIDE

DIVIDE SURFACE

LIST ITEM

VECTOR 2 POINT

OINT

LARGER THAN

CULL PATTERN GEOMETRY

ISOTRIM

BOUNDING BOX

AREA

SURFACE BOX LIST LENGTH

BOX MORPH

DISPATCH

RANDOM

CONSTRUCT DOMAIN

LINE

EVALUATE LENGTH

SHIFT

CULL NTH

4 POINT

SUB

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COMPONENTS

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CANOPY

MAIN STRUCTURE

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ENVISAGE CONSTRUCTION PROCESS MAIN STRUCTURE

7. 6. 5.

4. . 3.

1) Build all boxes. Ensure that they are all labeled to know the sequence and placement of the structure.

2) Stack and join a

CANOPY

1) Arrange all boxes to the correct arangement.

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all boxes at its vertices 3) Secure all structures are firmly joined to prevent any structure from falling as if one structure were to fail it will affect the entire stability of the structure.

2) Join them with a connection that is secure but enables movement or a flexible join to create fabric like structure. DETAILED DESIGN

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C.2 TECTONIC ELEMENTS AND PROTOTYPE

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CONNECTION TO GROUND

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This joining method is developed in consideration to the unique topography of the site which the structure is bend and conform along. This is one of the main structural joining system that can be applied to anchor the design into the site before any other consideration about the main fabrication and construction of pavilion can take place. The bottom boxes of the structure would follow along the gradient of the site would be anchored into the ground using bolts and plate system as this method creates a rigid joint as well as enabling the path to enable it to move along the landform.

BOLTS PLATE STRAP

BOTTOM BASE OF THE BOX

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MAIN STRUCTURE PROTOTYPE CONNECTIONS Plates, screws and nuts. In this prototype, the method of fixing the boxes at its sides was deemed a challenge as the connections in between each boxes are required to be rigid and stable. If one connection fails, it will affect the whole structure due to the fact that the whole system are built around each of the boxes. Therefore, looking at rigid structures were looked at and the usage of cold form bracket plates together with screws and nuts seems to be the most suitable joining method in terms of creating a strong connection as well as in constructability. The cold formed brackets, gives flexibility in connection as each sides of the boxes where they will be joined forms different angles. Therefore with a flexible join, we are able to reinforce each side of the boxes at different angles.

SCREW

COLD FORMED BRACKET PLATES

NUTS

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RIGID CONNECTIONS AT EACH SIDE OF EACH OF THE MODULES ARE REQUIRED

BUILDING PROCESS AND CREATING EACH MODULE To build the structure, each boxes are required to be labelled and joined at a specific location to achieve the structure. Therefore, in terms of construction, it is important to refer to the grasshopper file to determine which module are placed at which part. This process seems tedious but it is achievable through an organise and careful fabrication process.

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FINAL PROTOTYPE

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CONNECTIONS

CONNECTIONS AND PROTYPING PROCESS While building this prototype, it was realised that creating notches where the boxes could sit on was useful as a support to joined reach box. The main connections is the usage of the plates as it helps to reinforce the connection to create a rigid structure.

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CANOPY STRUCTURE PROTOTYPE SCREW IN HOOKS

CONNECTIONS

NUTS

Hooks and nuts For the canopy, a fabric like structure is needed to be constructed. Creating a flexible joint that can achieve this was looked into. An installation done by Nihon University of Science and Technology is looked into where they used the same design intent of using cubes to create a fabric like structure. To achieve the desired look, they used screw in hooks to build their installation1 . Therefore, this system is the most effective method to build the canopy as it easy to construct as well as being affordable.

1I-cube, Inverted Question Cube, <http://kyl-2013maku.jimdo.com/system/>, [accesed, 30 May 2015] WITH FLEXIBLE CONNECTIONS, IT ENABLES THE BOXES TO MOVE HENCE IT IS ABLE TO CREATE A CANOPY LIKE STRUCTURE WHEN SUSPENDED,

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CONNECTIONS AND PROTYPING PROCESS Mini screw in hooks was used to create this prototype. However the challenge was the usage of material in this prototype. As a 1mm boxboard was used and the intricate pattern on the boxes gives made the structure prone to tearing and etches from the laser cutting machine apparently caused some of the lines to be cur. Therefore, during the process of construction, tearing of the boxes did occur.

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FINAL PROTOTYPE

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MATERIALITY TIMBER

The material chosen is timber as it provides a ‘natural’ and ‘foresty’ look to the design. Through the prototype, it is founded that the creation of the boxes can provide notches for the next box to sit on top of it during construction. This gives the structure an easier way to be constructed. Therefore, the material used to build the structure has to be considered to achieve what was done in the prototype. The thickness of the timber will have to be similar to create a consistent and achievable structure. FIG6: COLD FORMED STEEL PLATES USED AS A CONNECTION SYSTEM IN SHIGERU BAN’S JAPAN PAVILION

The material, is strong enough to support any loads that is transferred within it and hold itself with plates, bolt and nuts connections. This can be seen in many of Shigeru Ban’s work such as the Japanese pavilion (see fig 6 and 7). The usage of timber is selected due to the fact that is sustainable as it is considered now as a renewable material1 .The harvesting and manufacturing process of timber is also deemed to be relatively ecological2 . Therefore timber is chosen as the main material for this structure. In terms of aesthetics, timber is able to give this quality. As timber derives from trees, having the whole structure made 1Connor Walker, Material Masters: Shigeru Ban’s Work With Wood,<http://www.archdaily. com/573818/material-masters-shigeru-ban-s-workwith-wood/>, [accessed 3 June 2015] 2 Walker,<http://www.archdaily.com/573818/material-masters-shigeru-ban-s-work-with-wood/>

FIG7: ANOTHER CONNECTION IN THE JAPAN PAVILION WHERE BOLTS AND STEEL PLATES ARE USED

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TESTING WITH SHADOW EFFECTS

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CONCEPTUALISATION 123

FINAL DESIGN

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C.3 FINAL DESIGN MODEL

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SITE MODEL IN RENDERED PRESPECTIVE

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SITE MODEL IN RENDERED PRESPECTIVE

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FINAL PROTOTYPE MAIN STRUCTURE

SCALE: 1:8 DETAILED DESIGN

FINAL PROTOTYPE CANOPY STRUCTURE

When stretched to create fabric like surface.

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SCALE: 1:5

Showing that the joints in between each vertices are flexible as the structure is able to shift shapes.

SCALE: 1:5 DETAILED DESIGN

SHADOW EXPERIENCE

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C.4 LEARNING OBJECTIVES AND OUTCOMES LEARNING OUTCOMES Objective 2. Developing â&#x20AC;&#x153;an ability to generate a variety of design possibilities for a given situationâ&#x20AC;? by introducing visual programming, algorithmic design and parametric modelling with their intrinsic capacities for extensive design-space exploration; Throughout this subject, the requirements of using grasshopper has led me to experiment and create various algorithms to find forms that I would be suitable for my project. With this, I have learned that with the usage of algorithmic design, it enables us to explore many types of forms, structure and ways to generate forms. It is different from using other architecture softwares such as CAD, Rhino and Sketchup due to the fact that with grasshopper, we are able to create complicated, gravity defying forms and we are able to build up from it and create changes which will be time consuming or impossible for the other programs.

Objective 7. develop foundational understandings of computational geometry, data structures and types of programming; In this course, I was able to understand ways to program as this subject primarily emphases on the usage of grasshopper. Therefore throughout these 3 and a half months of using and experimenting with grasshopper, I am able to understand the fundamental language of programming in grasshopper. I found this method unique and interesting to me as it is different from other programs which I have used in the past. Objective 8. begin developing a personalised repertoire of computational techniques substantiated by the understanding of their advantages, disadvantages and areas of application. Using grasshopper have introduced me to the realm of parametric design. Through this, I have looked and researched on architecture that uses this approach and have incorporate this into this project through playing around with algorithms. Hence, I have learned that using programming tools such as this can be convenient in creating complex forms and gives us the capability to improve our design through the incorporation of algorithms which cannot be done in other programs that I have used. The disadvantage of this is that when we generate forms that are too complex, finding the best way to build it can be really difficult.

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CONCLUSION Studio Air has taught me a lot and introduced me on using programming software such as Grasshopper which I am grateful for. It has been an eye opening experience throughout this subject as I have learned a lot on parametric design as well as learning and creating algorithms to build my project. Furthermore, it has also challenged me to experiment with many algorithms and plug-ins to come up with my final design. In addition, not just computational skills comes in hand but also practical skills are needed as we are required to build prototypes of our design and find the best solution to create connections and make our design achievable in real life. Even though I did find this subject really difficult due to time constraints and the time given to complete our assignments (which is little too rush in my opinion), I did find it rewarding as I have a learned skills which I might not be able to obtain in other subjects. Initially I was quite skeptical and hesitant on using grasshopper as it was difficult and seems foreign to me. Now, I am proud to say now that I am able to use and understand most algorithms that I have come across and would love to further build my skills in Grasshopper and continue using this skill that I have just obtained in future studios.

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CONCEPTUALISATION 139

REFERENCE REFERENCE LIST

Australian National Botanic Gardens, Information about Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Flora and Growing Native Plants, <http://www.anbg.gov.au/climbers/>, [accessed, 1 June 2015] City of Yarra, Gardening with Native Plants in Yarra, (Melbourne, City

of Yarra, 2001).

I-cube, Inverted Question Cube, <http://kyl-2013-maku.jimdo.com/system/>, [accessed, 30 May 2015] Walker, Connor, Material Masters: Shigeru Banâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Work With Wood,(ArchDaily, 2014), <http://www. archdaily.com/573818/material-masters-shigeru-ban-s-work-with-wood/>, [accessed 3 June 2015]

IMAGE REFERENCE Fig 1 : Matthias, 2011 http://ecunu.com/analyze-this-analyze-everything-5592 Fig 2: City of Yarra, Gardening with Native Plants in Yarra, (Melbourne, City of Yarra, 2001), p. 25 Fig3:City of Yarra, Gardening with Native Plants in Yarra, (Melbourne, City p. 25

of Yarra, 2001),

FIg 4:City of Yarra, Gardening with Native Plants in Yarra, (Melbourne, City p. 25

of Yarra, 2001),

Fig 5:Detail inspiration http://detail-online.com/inspiration/japanese-pavilion-at-the-expo-in-hanover-106867.html FIg 6: Detail inspiration http://detail-online.com/inspiration/japanese-pavilion-at-the-expo-in-hanover-106867.html

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