WESTERN GATEWAY DESIGN PROJECT
ARCHITECTURURAL STUDIO AIR 2012 ANLAN CHEN 361100
CONTENTS PART 1 EXPRESSION OF INTEREST CASE FOR INNOVATION 1 01 ARCHITECTURE AS A DISCOURSE 02 COMPUTING IN ARCHITECTURE
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03 PARAMETRIC MODELING 15
RESEARCH PROJECT 04 SCOPE OF POSSIBILITIES 17 05 MODELING EXPLORATION 21 06 REVERSE ENGINEERING STUDY 23 07 PROTOTYPE FABRICATION 25
Competitive advantage 31
PART 2 PROJECT PROPOSAL CONCEPT 34
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PRECEDENTS 08 HIGH LINE 37 09 FIBRE COMPOSITE ADAPTIVE SYSTEM 39
DESIGN DEVELOPMENT 10 DIGITAL MODELING 41 11 DIGITAL RENDERING 47
PART 3 LEARNING OBJECTIVES AND OUTCOMES 51 REFERENCES
WESTERN GATEWAY PROJECT
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EXPRESSION OF INTEREST
ARCHITECTURE AS A DISCOURSE LECTURE
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“Certainly by the time you graduate and soon after, the change will be even more dramatic...two primary reasons are ecological sustainablity and the influence of technology.”
In my opinion the progession of technology has alway been a catalyst throughout the architectural history, but it is this humane approach towards design that has driven contemporary building industry into a new discourse. At the moment what also coexists is the so-called “starchitecture“ phenomenon that has swept across the globe, which somehow also seeps through today’s architectural education that could at times be a bit misleading.
“so pretty much what this course will means to you is to see that what this creative attitude towards computing might mean... “
By the time I’m writing this journal computing still seems like a narrow platform: to me the generation of an architectural scheme has alway been the product of human-machine interaction and the compromising between the two; to see what software can provide us and what are buildable. However this also applies to all design processes until one day we can literally materialize our ideas, when technology literally is just a vehicle without any bound attached.
“architecture is a cultural practice..... SO IT STRUCTURES HUMAN LIFE IN PARTICULAR ways... AND THE WHOLE IDEA BEHIND CONTEMPORARY DESIGN IS IT CAN EnGAGE WITH SOCIAL ENGINEERING... for all leading buildings this contribution is more important than the building itself. “
It is very interesting how architecture functions socially and politically in our world. And an implication of the last sentence could be that even a building is devoid of functionality it might still serve a society culturally, vice versa it is possible to design a building purely out
of literal intrepretation or even without materiality, and still be considered as architecture.
4 In conclusion when architects approach a project today they also have to examine the general cultural context apart from the buiding itself, whether to maintain it or change it, which will eventually bring economic and ecological benefits.
READING Williams, Richard (2005). ‘Architecture and Visual Culture’, in Exploring Visual Culture: Definitions, Concepts, Contexts, ed. by Matthew Rampley (Edinburgh: Edinburgh University Press), pp. 102-116 The article discusses three common approaches towards architecture: as art, as a symbolic realm, and as spatial experience; and since none of them can define architecture by itself we should view architecture as a discourse on built environment ar large rather than just the physical building. Therefore we should bear these factors in mind when it comes to design our final project in order to form a well-rounded outcome. As stanislav addressed two primary concerns of the design studio are to advance our knowledge and creative capacities, and to contribute something to the contemporary architectural discourse on computation and its role in practice and education. The introduciton of digital computation can exhibit a new type of beauty, draw attention to both the installation and digital design, create a new experience for drivers as well as people who view it through media.
Schumacher, Patrik (2011). The Autopoiesis of Architecture: A New Framework for Architecture (Chichester: Wiley), pp. 1-28 The article describes that within the architectual discourse three factors interactive with each other: artefacts, knowledge and pratices, that make architecture an autopoietic system. Any new ways of communication such as scripting constantly update the system. The existing sculpture fulfills aesthetic as well as symbolic funtion, which can be superseded by parametric design in terms of improving these functions and adding more functions, such as addresses to browsers online or responds to the local climate.
01 CASE FOR INNOVATION: ARCHITECTURE AS DISCOURSE
“design challenges evolved from: products - goods, services and identities - interfaces - multiuser systems and networks - projects- discourses”
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ike Western Gateway, my first year project Headspace also looked beyond architecture into the general realm of design. Similarly it also utilized designing software, in this case Google Sketchup, to explore free flowing forms and translated them into physical model via digital fabrication. Though all the surfaces were trianglated and we had barely scratched the surface of computational design, we did learn its merits: • it makes the design of large scale and repeatitive- patterned objects easy, without compromising quality or precision of outcomes • it makes instant and remote sharing possible, therefore tremendously shortens the timeline revolutionizing former coordination mode In all it has shifted discourses in architecture in many ways, as it on one hand liberated imagination of designers, on the other hand it changed and is still changing public views of contemporary design - that technology allows for infinite possiblities. And being innovative and abstract, as the brief asks for, is exactly the speciality of parametric design.
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HEADSPACE
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01 CASE FOR INNOVATION: ARCHITECTURE AS DISCOURSE
PERSONAL PROJECT RTUAL ENVIRONMENT
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hrough a transformable wall system which integrates furniture, storage, exercise equipment, lighting, office equipment, and entertainment systems, CityHome, with a very small footprint (840 square feet), can literally function as an apartment two to three times that size. This virtual project explores the possiblity of high density habitation in the face of soaring urban sprawl, and opens up a new window for housing customization; since each occupant can personalize wall units according to his or her unique activities and requirements.
State of Art
CityHome
Architect: MIT Media Lab Location: Boston, NY
http://cp.media.mit.edu/research/67-cityhome
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In relation to our EOI, this project perfectly demonstrates how dynamic responses to the social/natrual environment could greatly enhance architecture’s functionality and livability, even under multiple restrictions. And this response could be precisely controlled by digital systems, in which much more complex adaptation can be simulated.
http://www.archdaily.com/97040/dirichlet-modular-decomposition-arthur-toth/
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odularization undoubted has profoundly changed the architectural designing process. As can be seen from this project architects began to design from this modularizing point of view, aiming for high efficiency and low cost of the design outcome that cater for the mass.
State of Art
Dirichlet Modular Decomposition In this London competition entry, the designer with the application of dirichlet tessellation divided the room exterior into geometric algorithms, which at the same time matches its interior organization. The modular computational geometry can be easily introduced into computer-aided design and manufacturing, which in turn benefit from its 3D model accuracy and fast prototyping capabilities. Furniture can be designed to comply to its spatial subdivision, and can be integrated from early stages of modular construction.
Architect: Arthur Toth Location: London, UK
COMPUTING IN ARCHITECTURE LECTURE “cAd might conspire against creative thought ... by encouraging “fake” creativity.” “For the first time perhaps,architectural design might be aligned with neither formalism nor rationalism but with intelligent form and traceable creativity.”
READING
One of the scepticism of design computation is that it will kill designer’s artistic intuition by mechanize the creative process, constantly copying and paste, or just adopt pattern that could be generated by the software, one of the examples being the popularity of voronoi. The way I see it is that like other technologies, by adapting to them we will always lose something old meanwhile gaining something new. Loss is inevitable, and byfar the diversity of modern architecture still can’t tell us whether we are progressing or not, or simply just changing.
Kalay, Yehuda E. (2004). Architecture’s New Media: Principles, Theories, and Methods of Computer-Aided Design (Cambridge, MA: MIT Press), pp. 5-25 Encoding & Decoding of Information, Computerization: Instant sharing; More people involved;
Goal & Desirable performance Environmental, Social & Cultural Context Constraints Side effects & Aftereffects of solution
Brainstorm for solutions
Completion & Examination of solutions Choose the “tradeoffs”
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The Design Process
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• Problem Solving The problem in wydnham project is to find a solution that will meet requirement from the client - Wyndham City Council, the surrounding community/natual environment and Melbourne city as a whole, and addressing our goal - to produce an iconic gateway for Wyndham that will bring both cultural and finacial benefit. With so many criteria and restrictions at hand, what we as designers can do is to propose multiple solutions then test them against our criteria to find the optimal resolution. • Puzzle Making However what is addressed in the project brief is only a frame, therefore it is up to us designers to complete the puzzle, to find out issues that could help in shaping the solutions. In our EOI we looked for local climatic conditions and future urban planning schemes - pieces of puzzles that fit our design frame. Such data-driven approaches have been computationally represented as forward-reasoning search strategies: operators are applied to the current state of the problem with the aim of transforming it according to predefined sets of rules. • A Dialogue The interdependency between the goals, the solutions, and the design context creates a cyclical relationship between the two paradigms: design goals are developed that provide the process with a direction, then solutions are proposed that purport to accomplish them. This iterate process is an essential part during our EOI generation in that it helps us progressively refine our proposal getting closer and closer to what we are aiming for at the beginning.
02 CASE FOR INNOVATION: COMPUTING IN ARCHITECTURE
The Design Paradigm
http://www.generatorx.no/20080714/frozen-sound-as-space/
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frozen: sound as space
eander Herzog: sound structure, laser cut plastic structures based on sound analysis. the process of materializing the sound structures.
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rozen (part of the 5 Days Off MEDIA festival) is an exhibition of experiments on the representation of sound via media beyond the auditory. It examines the sound signal as a virtual space, presenting possible mappings that visualize or interpret the structures contained within the soundwaves. Sound, then, was literally being frozen at a certain moment. Here owing to the developing digital techniques, image and sound are connected in a way that was previously unthinkable. Digital design - exact and manipulate meaningful data from audio analysis, and digital fabrication, including techniques such as rapid prototyping, CNC and laser cutting, were used in the project to directly translate soundwave into physical model. Similar mode of fabrication could be used in the Wyndham Project to translate digital modules into substances. But most importantly SOUND AS SPACE is a good example in capturing the material aspect of abstract items, creatively transforming the intangible into spatial objects that may also apply to our project
Team: Andreas Nicolas Fischer & Benjamin Maus (DE) Leander Herzog (CH) Marius Watz Daniel Widrig & Shajay Booshan (UK) Sound: Freiband / Frans de Waard (NL) Sound: Alexander Rishaug (NO) Location: Amsterdam, Netherland
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his is a case study that demonstrates what computerization is capable of: millions of parametric prototypes without the necessity of building actual models; pinpoint location of 3D models according to site constraints; and CNC routing and systematic assemblage that has every curved beam customized. Precision of the connection is important here as it allows for even leveling through the entire length of the interior. On top of all these lighting and ambience of the dining area were also simulated and studied in design software. In this way designers today could gain full control over their designs in terms of responding to the external environment. This inspires us that our proposal for the Wyndham Project could also utilize the advantage of parametric design to fully engage with the site’s environmental elements.
cross sectional development - transformation through retail
section / dining area
paradigms of existing infrastructure
proposed armature
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indigo deli
02 CASE FOR INNOVATION: COMPUTING IN ARCHITECTURE
Architect: sameep padora and associates Location: mumbai, india
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http://www.designboom.com/weblog/cat/9/view/19234/sameep-padora-and-associates-indigo-deli.html
PARAMETRIC MODELING READING Burry, Mark (2011). Scripting Cultures: Architectural Design and Programming (Chichester: Wiley) pp. 8-71 Parametric Modelling is the process of associating and exposing explicit parameters to computational geometry. And scripting, meaning lower-level computor programming, are increasingly being assimilated into today’s practices producing parametric designs. It provides a significantly deeper engagement between the computer and user by automating routine aspects and repetitive activities, thus facilitating a far greater range of potential outcomes for the same investment in time. Ideally it will free up architects to spend more time on design thinking, unfortuately it is leading a number of contemporary designers to merely appropriating scripting systems rather than make them. Moreover there also presents a tendency in the industry towards “generative design using genetic algorithms, or agent systems, or some other ‘system’, usually from the same stable.” These are exactly what we are trying to avoid in our design process, to reach beyond the analogous process in search for logical connection between our inputs and our design aim, meanwhile “seeking deeper access to our imagination”.
LECTURE “In both spreadsheets and design-based parametric modelling systems, work is divided between user and computer with the user defining the cell contents and network structure and the computer maintaining the values in the network.” Digital computation has profoundly changed the way the building industry operates. It also has led to the introduction of communication/colaboration softwares that allow various parties to be involved in real-time information sharing and exchange throughout the buidling process. Architect’s role in this process, therefore, is to orchestra the interaction and prompt the disciplines to work together, but not to the extent of master builder.
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The Milad Complex is a structure that sits within the urban environment of Tehran and incorporates commercial, office and hotel spaces. The main challenge the design team faced was to come up with a propasal that could cater to different functional needs of each compartment, without compromising the overall spatial integrity. Therefore an integrated mass with six courtyards punching through emerged as the final scheme to elimate the mental feeling of high-rise. The team then employed scripting after the desired physical form was registered to explore the optimal structure that would best respond to inputs such as the local climate, the urban setting and the future expectations suggested by the municipality of Tehran(left top). The most distinctive advatages of scripting are its flexibility and precision, which have made it an effective tool within the profession. Through scripting multiple design requirements could be addressed simutaneously, such as rain catchment area and sun angle. And fast prototyping provides designers with infinite variations to choose the best resolution from.
Milad Complex Proposal Architect: ContemporARchitectURban Designers Group Location: Tehran, Iran
http://www.archdaily.com/212767/milad-complex-proposal-contemporarchitecturban-designers-group/
BOOLEAN PATTERNING + IMAGE SAMPLER
input into image sampler defined as True, False, True
scale up image sampler output; decrease bounds of domain
image sampler channel switches colour brightness to colou
EXPLICIT GRIDS + MATHS FUNCTIONS
radius of circle determined by distance to an arbitrary curve
radius of circle determined by function sin(x) * y
hexagonal grid chang rectangular
hexagonal grid changed to rectangular grid
extrude along a vector (2 z=distance to curve attr
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ged to r grid
2,2,z), ractor
boolean pattern changes to True, True, True
function changed to sin(x) * sin(y)
04 RESEARCH PROJECT: SCOPE OF POSSIBILITIES
s from ur hue
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extrude along a vector (4,y,2), y=image sampler output
function changed to sin(x)/y
function changed to sin(x) + cos(y)
SURFACE NORMALS + CURVE ATTRACTOR
extrude along a vector (0,0,z) z=outputs of image sampler
extrude along a vector (0,0,z), z=distance to curver attractor
ESEARCH PROJECT_SCOPE OF POSSIBILITIES Extrusion
2 layers of circles, whose radius were determined by math funciton sin(x) * cos(y) * y and image sampler
both layers extrude along a vector (2,0,z), z=output from function
lower layer extrude along a vector (0,2,z), z=output from function
lower la (0,2
OVERLAPPING PATTERNS + USING SETS
2 layers of circle controlled by attractor curve overlapping each other
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lower layer controlled by bool patterning: True, Fa
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ayer extrude along a vector 2,z), z=output from function
lean alse
both layer processed by image sampler
inputs replaced with 5 values instead of 3, extrude along a vector(2,2,z), z=replace outputs*7
extrude along a vector (2,y,0), y=replace outputs
upper layer move along a vector(0,10,5)
For this section a combination of matrix is explored before moving to the next stage. Each group member was assigned a output definitions to start off with, connecting other Inputs and Association definitions. During experimentation it became evident that scripting was a powerful tool in producing parametric geometries in terms of manipulation and representation of forms. As there was no goal to start with, once the exploration began we realized that the growth of the objects could also be simulated within Grasshopper which became one of our areas of interest.
04 RESEARCH PROJECT: SCOPE OF POSSIBILITIES
SURFACE NORMALS + MULTIPLE MATH FUNCTIONS
Besides vertical elements horizontal strips with same degree of sun penetration also came to our minds; with strips slightly passing each other, openings were created that could either frame views or allow vehicles drive in and out the structure.
We started with paper strips that were stuck to a grid panel; however the softness of the strips and the difficulty of trimming proved it unsuitable material
Plastic straws on the other hand, proved to be the best material for its stiffiness and easiness to trim. They are also most similar to the extrusion effect we want modelling after our selected digital geometry. Different colours were adopted as well to test the structure’s gradually changing transparency.
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However our other experimentation result, the paper strips, had a more organic feeling that would better merge with the site and may be more engaging since it allowed drivers to drive in and out of the installation. It still kept all the advantages of its precedents such as being reflective and permable, while required a simpler structure that could consist primarily of precast panels. Therefore we decided to adopt the latter as the prototype for our later development. radii of tubes controlled by distances between the two surfaces
reverse landscape
exsiting landscape
05 RESEARCH PROJECT: MODELING EXPLORATION
As we are interested in the relationship between the site and our intend installation, we found that surface normal, image sampler and using sets were the three most useful definitions when it comes to manipulating landscape. A surface is created using these definitions to be reflective of the existing topography; then it is hung above the site to produce a mirror-like effect. Initially we did this by having tubes protruding from the two surfaces whose lengths were controlled by its distance to the other surface; and by controlling the radii or transparency of the tubes we could manipulate the ambient light.
BANQ RES Architect: Office dA Location: Boston, USA
BANQ Restaurant is group felt most inspir frabrication. The curv paper-strip model and i in this case is the plum on the floor. Moreover i material as well. Som wood or bamboo are th warm feeling about the could be potentially gla
Matrix techniques su extrusion were used d produce an exact repli were discovered during
Using Grasshopper, ou fabricated in panels t using two-dimensiona efficient and sustainabl a factory environment the material used to cr puzzle is heightened as each unit. This may be u on site because it gives what needs to be done.
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an architectural precedence that our ring in terms of digital modeling and ved slats bear great similarity to our is also defined by site constraints, which mbing systems and fluctuating activities it is a good example of adopting natural me of the biggest adavantages of using hat they are eco-friendly, can provide a e space, and could absorb reflection that aring especially on highways.
uch as surface grids, remapping and during digital modeling. However to ica other definitions were used which g further research.
ur definition allows for pieces to be to create a free dimensional product al panels. This is a key to creating le architecture that can be fabircated in t. Three-quarter-inch birch plywood is reate the pieces and its comparison to a s there is only one possible location for useful for fabricating the pieces together s the builders a definite direction as to .
06 RESEARCH PROJECT: REVERSE ENGINEERING STUDY
STAURANT
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2030 South Werribee Green Wedge Policy and Management Plan
our proposal within the planning context
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Werribee South Green Wedge Policy and Management Plan _October 2010_a
Inspired by our prototype and cases for innovation, we decided to use the site’s physical environment as our primary parameters apart from forming linkage to its surroundings. This includes factors such as speed of passing by vehicles, the local topography, contrast between day and night lighting, local wind statistics, sun movement and views of the site framed by our design. These factors could be used as inputs to constrain locations and forms of our strips, just like the BANQ restaurant, which, would also be realized by precast wood panels. Apart from these our project also needs to cover all three roads, for our site analysis indicated that only large-scale objects could attract the attention of highspeed drivers. Overall our project would eventually amplifies traits of the site, traits that were both noticed and unnoticed, and manipulates them by scripting to have the optimal visual and audio conditions within. So that drivers will still feel connected to the site, while being immersed in a dramatic and enticing experience that we create.
views
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speed limit
topography
day&night lighting
wind orientation
sunpath
07 RESEARCH PROJECT: PROTOTYPE FABRICATION
In accord with the Melbourne 2030 Metropolitan Strategy, Wyndham Council proposed to have our site isolated even then as a part of their South Werribee Green Wedge Policy and Management Plan. In 20 years our site will be sitting between nonagricultural area and western treatment plan, connecting to the city only by freeways. But since the aim of this project is to put the site on the map, we believe that in order to link to its surrounding zones as well as attract more people, a gathering place for visitors to socialize and relax may be necessary hence opening up more future possibilities.
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1. Creating a series of lines perpendicular to the site 2. Interpolate lines through a series of points whose heights were determined first by image sampling the site’s topography then through funtion f(x)=1/x 3. Loft the interpolated lines, then slice the derived surface by lines created in step 1 4. bake the slices/strips
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As trial we started with one single factor: topography - as in how we could exaggerate the local topography. At present the existing site appears to be almost flat to most of the drivers. Therefore by changing the status quo, i.e. exaggerated the undulating landscape, we could make them once again feel overwhelmed by the beauty of natural curves, even though they are exhibited via manmade structure. In terms of technique we tried a couple of ways to slice the volume to the exact shape we want, where interpolation and merge proved to be most efficient in comparison to others. For the next step we could either re-orientate or adjust the spacing between slices to respond to the external environment, or simply adding openings upon the surface which may as well be adaptive.
07 RESEARCH PROJECT: PROTOTYPE FABRICATION
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PHYSICAL MODEL
Unfortunately due to technique difficulties ou integrate the existing freeways. However the un exhibits the dramatic and overwhelming experi During our next stage more details will be studied the structure sit on ground, whether we should a well, and how other parameters could be joined we can see from this model the shadow varies bas the slice and its angle to the light), and most impo it drive local urban development via linkage.
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ur model failed to ndulating slices still ience we intended. d such as how would alter the ground as d into the design(as sed on the shape of ortantly how would
Laser cutting is an effective fabrication technique in that it simplifies the production designs with repeatitive and complex textures, and it could deal with hard materials such as plywood with ultra precision. Like other digital fabrication technique it saves a lot of labour and extensively shorten the time frame of projects, which as a consequence also cuts down the overall cost.
COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE Parametric design undoubtly has and is revolutionizing contemporary architectural practices in many ways. The Western Gateway project, in order to guarantee its future position as a “gateway� and landmark of Wyndham City, needs to advance itself and keep updated to the ever-advancing technologies - not only for the sake of innovate and ground-breaking appearances, but also for the utilities and sustainability it will bring about. Efficiency might be the biggest plus for parametric modelling, for the integration of parametric software could save the designer a great deal of time. They free architects from processing menial and repetitive tasks, as show by the generating of definition matrix. And computer-aided manufacturing allows fabrication with ultra-precision as well as simultaneous processing of large numbers of units, which will give us great efficiency when it comes to translating design drafts into physical construction. Eventually by prefabricating the components off site and optimising them for transport would greatly benifit the stakeholders of Wyndham City and tradesmen involved, both in terms of cost and time. Indeed parametric modelling has opened up infinite building possibilities, and one of them that interests us the most is that it allows the project to be more relevant and site specific. It offers us great opportunities to explore multiple parameters and link their performative features to the design process effortlessly and instantly. Hence using these technologies we can establish stronger relations between the design itself and its site context. Above all parametric design as a design tool brings vast avenue to both the designing and construction process. It not only expands various possibilities in efficiency and design freedom, but also develops a whole new depth for the design itself in terms of its functionality and greater site value.
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Fabrication techniques has limitations. Sometimes using computational tools lets you in on a false notion that everything can be computer automated and fabricated. But really, most of it is still you driving the process. The com puter still does not design for you, and it does not think. It merely shows you your thinking efforts, but in the end it is up to you to drive teh process and make it happen.The techniques of fabrication , mainly laser cutting are very limiting in terms of the geometries that we can produce. By far the most creative extendsion we can get from laser cutting is creating molds to achieve a solid 3D form. A huge part of this course revolves around structuring your arguments and building a coherent design narrative that wioll give you and your team a competitive advantage to get comissioned to do the project. Making coherent design anarrative and argument requires a synthesis of (technical: grasshopper) knowledge, space, placemaking, deep understanding of the brief, knowledge of Wyndham city character, understanding of archietcture as a discourse fabrication techniques material qualities implications of forms generated with parametric tools. With the ease of obtaining premade definitions, care must be taken so as to ensure that this feature is not exploited as a cloning tool but is instead used as a time-saver. They should be Various combinations of relevant premade definitions can be used as a basis to allow for efforts to be focused on the development of the design – design concepts and required modifications can be applied to create a project that is original.
COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE
One of the most beneficial aspect of this course is that it introduces us to a new design methodology: which is design through research. We were introduced to a complex series of steps that ensures we have the necessary skills and framework before being asked to compile those sets of understandings and skills to innovate and more importantly, learn from your process, critique it during your progress, and learn from your process and mistakes. Compared to other design subjects, we are more exposed to fabrication techniques and qualities of materials and what is possible with these material qualities. With our own research that is set at our own pace and direction, we have learned the different properties of materials.
WESTERN GATEWAY PROJECT PROJECT PROPOSAL
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LANDSCAPE ENCOUNTER INNOVATIVE
FIELD
EXCITING
ASPIRATIONAL
EYE-CATCHING ORIGINAL
ICONIC ABSTRACT
DIALOGUE BETWEEN SCULPTURE AND LANDSCAPE INDICATION OF ARRIVAL UPGRADE STREETSCAPE
PLACE-MAKING
ENRICH MUNICIPALITY SAFETY
LONGEVITY
ACCESSIBLE MAINTENANCE
BRIEF HIGH SPEED
SCALE
FLAT TOPOGRAPHY NON-AGRICULTURAL LAND
IMPACT VIEW
DAY VS NIGHT
SUN PATH
WIND
SITE CONTEXT
DESIGN CONCEPT
Our concept could be summerized as “connection�: connection between our site and its future context, connect and outdoor experience, and connection between artificial and natural construct. Based on our prototype pro we propose a structure that has its shape reflective of the undulating landscape - almost like an extension o and incontinuously contains all roads and freeways, providing a contrast between light and dark, views of ou environment. It will mainly consists of laminated bamboo panels, whose spacing is dominated by Melbourne su early morning and late afternoon glaring. During daytime sunlight will penetrate through the slits between ad panels, whereas after dark lightings installed on the inner sides of panels will light up the whole structure. Inspi High Line, we decided to have pedestrians and public space upon or enclosed by our structure, forming an inters between residential district and tourist precinct.
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PROJECT PROPOSAL - CONCEPT
tion between indoor oduced during EOI, of the surroundings, ur structure and the unpath to minimize djacent strips of ired by section
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Among many aspects of this project one that interests us the most is the variety of programs it offers. Since High Line runs 1.6 km along the lower west side of Manhattan, architects have integrated different forms of public space at each interjunction with traffic arteries in order to acommodate local needs. Either sitting among the vegetation or having a lookout over the city, nearby residents are offered a new relaxation resort, a socializing spot and a shortcut through the city that was already embeded within the urban space. Like a linear park hanging above the bustling metropolitan, it will undoubtly vibrates local communities through promoting communication and hosting cultural events.
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high line Architect: Diller Scofidio + Renfro Location: New York, US
The High Line Project, designed by New York based studio Diller Scofidio + Renfro, has proposed an innovative way to recycle urban ruins - in this case a former elevated New York Central Railroad , into public open space that can be shared and enjoyed by local communities. Concrete walkways were designed to meld into the existing vegetation, and portions of track were also reused for rolling lounges positioned for views of the Hudson River. It is termed by the designer as “an integration of architecture and agriculture”, which bear great resemblance to our project since we also play with the site’s environmental context. It is a good example in terms of boosting local communities through creating common gathering space and building above traffic. It also proved that greeway could bring considerate economic benefits as well since it spurs real estate nearby.
In this research project a fire composite system embeded with optic sensor was created to sense, actuate and hence efficiently adapt to the changing environmental conditions. Being inspired by “Thigmo-morphogenesis“, namely the changes in shape, structure and material properties of biological organisms in response to transient changes in environments, the composite can simultaneously sense multiple parameters such as strain, temperature and humidity, then transmit the signals through an artificial neural networks to adapt to one of its most efficient configurations. By employing shape memory alloy which keeps rearranging their micro-molecular organisation, a constant equilibrium between the external inputs and configurational output is reached. As we are also seeking connections between the project and its context, this may be a good example in linking the two: to have the structure constantly adapt to external inputs(especially sunpath) via pre-scripting, to create a better environmental condition within our structure while still permiting all the natural elements.
http://www.evolo.us/architecture/fibre-composite-adaptive-systems/
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Design Team: Maria Mingallon, Sakthivel Ramaswamy, Konstantinos Karatzas Location: London, UK
“In a leaf, the veins account for its form, structural strength and nourishment, nevertheless they are an integral part of the sensing and the actuation function.”
PROJECT PROPOSAL: PRECEDENTS
FIRRE COMPOSITE ADAPTIVE SYSTEM
1. We started with a boundary that roughly follows orientation of all three sites, covering all roads and freeways
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2-1
2-2
2-4
2-5
2-3
42 PROJECT PROPOSAL: DIGITAL MODELING
1. SITE PLAN 2-1. A series of points were created whose heights were based on existing ground levels. Then we set the minimum clearance right above the freeways (on average 4.5m in Victoria, round off to 5m) and exaggerate their heights through functions in Grasshopper. In addition the western tip was elevated a few meters above ground level in order to forming a deck overlooking the landscape. As we also want to integrate a public space within our proposal, a bowl-shaped depression was created on the surface right above the area, either being part of its main structure or being used to collect stormwater. 2-2. Roads in the form of tunnels were added to the volume. As can be seen part of the volume were under ground level. 2-3. Walkway in a gradient of approximately 1:12 were made meandering upon the surface, whose exits were respectively on the north and south border of the volume. 2-4. A curved walkway leading to the public space was linked with other walkways on the surface. 2-5. Overall geometry with a network of lanes and paths.
2. FORM DEVELOPMENT
3. SLICING
From spacing patterning - represented by a series of grey thin boxes, we can see that it is wise to narrow spacing at two ends to block low angle sun. We picked patterns at 7:15 am and 6:00 pm(as these are the times when end spacing become the narrowest) then combine the two adjusting to the right scale.(right bottom) For the last step we trimmed our surface using the resultant boxes, then our basic form is finished.
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7:15 AM
8:45 AM
5:30 PM
6:00 PM
PROJECT PROPOSAL: DIGITAL MODELING
When it comes to volume slicing, sunpath is the major determining factor that regulates spacing between panels. Using sun as an attractor point, we studied responding spacing pattern at four particular time on the day of spring/autumn solstice, that is when sun angle roughly ranges from 0 to 20 degree above east/west horizon.(left) According to research solstice is the day when drivers will encounter the strongest glaring, among which early morning and late afternoon sun will be the most hazardous especially for east-west motorists.
24 HRS SUN - SHADOW SIMULATION To further study and demonstration structural details we built a 1:250 mock up model around the public space area. The easiest way we found to make our structure stand upright, is to have a secondary joist system that props panels from below. Nevertheless for the convenience of digital modeling and fabrication we have portrayed it as a rough waffle structure here, which remains open to the external environment. As we intend to use frost glass for the enclosed public space so that people within can have a full view of the structure and landscape beyond, we adopted transparent plastic boards to also reveals shadows below. It should be located below ground level and connected to other walkways via a footpath, so that visitors will not feel very confronting directly facing the highway. The walkways then, are to be made of timber and supported by the panels on top of steel trusses. In respect to material as aforementioned we want to use natural material that will not conflict with the scenery and will be a showcase of sustainable design. Lamboo速 (literally as laminated bamboo), in this sense, became the best option. It is a novel material that has not been used for long in the industry, thus will definitely be eye-catching, and it is structually strong as well as glare-absorbent, with construction method very similar to timber portal frame.
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LAMBOO速 WAFFLE INTERSECTION
LAMBOO-GLAZING JOINT WITH LAMBOO速 COVER CAP
1:250 MOCK UP
4. DETAIL CONSTRUCTION
PROJECT PROPOSAL: DIGITAL MODELING
Walkway STEEL DECKING ON TOP OF LAMBOO速
PROPOSAL EXTERIOR
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48 42 PROJECT PROPOSAL: DIGITAL RENDERING
ENTRANCE TO ENCLOSED PUBLIC SPACE
INTERIOR SHOT
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LOOKING OUT FROM THE PUBLIC SPACE
WESTERN GATEWAY PROJECT
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LEARNING OBJECTIVES AND OUTCOMES
LEARNING OBJECTIVES • During Western Gateway Project we’ve learned to “interrogating a brief ” by considering the process of brief formation in the age of optioneering enabled by digital technologies; • We have developed our abilities to make a case for competition proposals through engaging ourselves in in the controversies and contradiction of contemporary architectural discourses and learned to view digital design even this subject critically; • We begin to develop our personalised repertoire of computational techniques such as Rhino, Grasshopper, Indesign and Illustrator, which is also substantiated by the understanding of their advantages, disadvantages and areas of application; • We also developed our capabilities for conceptual, technical and design analysis in comparison with the flagship professional projects.
LERANING PROGRESS As Loren said at the beginning of this semester that the learning curve of Grasshopper will be a dramatic one, I think as the semester draws to an end I could say that I’ve experienced the ups and downs of this curve. Though have only used GH for one single project, I found that Grasshopper appears to be more logical and user-friendly than other design softwares (that I know of). Because as a scripting software users can break down their design intents into sequential steps and work on them each at a time. And even better all steps are exhibited at the same time and could be traced back to instantly, with rests of the definitions being corrected automatically. Though bear close resemblance to programming its visual appearance looks more like a mind map, which is instantly recognizible and easy to grasp. However when it comes to using Grasshopper as a design tool I had doubts at the first few weeks of this semester. Because I’ve seen and am still seeing a lot of design have the same imprints, which may highly likely due to directly derive easy patterns from software. A good example of this is the BANQ restaurant, which looks almost the same as my other precedent indigo deli, even though the two are countries apart. As the semester progresses I realized that design softwares are only simulations of problem-solving methods that could never replace innovative and original ideas. And as designers our main concern should not be “who designs what first” but rather how to provide better resolution to real world problems using these mutual tools. That is why I found Grasshopper forum extremely supportive and helpful throughout our design in that everyone just share their definitions to contribute to the profession in general. Group working is also unexpectedly challenging throughout the project, since it is hard for any one to compromise his/her ideas to cater to the group’s interest, particularly when all members’ specialties are designing(in the most superficial sense). And what we eventually worked out is to have one of the members playing the role of a mediator who will have a final say in continuing dead-end arguments.
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Moreover thanks to Grasshopper this semester we had a better pratice and understand of digital fabrication. As I believe this is ture for most architects, it is the moment when you can touch your final design outcome that makes the whole process worthwhile. We get to know the capabilities of different modelling materials through repeatitive experimentation. Laser-cutting also helped us to realize complex forms that is impossible to be hand-made.
LEARNING OUTCOMES Even though we also get to know Google Sketchup via first year subject Virtual Environment, I felt that Air Studio is the first subject that formally introduces us to computerizational design. With more knowledge of what technologies are capable of, it is no doubt that more possiblities are exhibited to us most of which were unthinkable before. More importantly we are learning to look at these advances critically, so that when designing we will objectively view these options and choose our tools more carefully. As critics remarked at the final presenation that with the addition of numerous functions our project ended up being too specific thereby failed to capture the big picture. So throughout the journal I have tried to generalize the details whenever it is possible. As we put majority of our effort on our three main lines: engaing with landscape, adaptive design and future urban planning, we gradually narrowed our design down to inexistent constraints yet let our initial concept being washed away. However to us this still became a valuable lesson to learn: that is to grasp the main intent behind brief first and always keeps it in mind as a guide through design.
FUTURE WORKS Like all other Melbourne Model design studios we are introduced to a new software and left with the responsibility of mastering them ourselves. During Western Gateway Project I have developed a liking towards parametric design and will definitely keep experimenting with Grasshopper to try out more interesting definitions. Moreover I’m also attracted to how digital photography and animation could bring out the drama and dynamics within architectural design. It is a powerful tool in terms of presentation since intuitive things like interior view through the design or real-time model studies can only be communicate to the clients through animaton or video recording, which I would like to learn more.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES AND OUTCOMES
Though this may not be the best resolution but it did prove to be efficient, so that in the end we could focus on what matters the most and agree on a single design. To keep every one at the same pace turned out to be equally difficult as well; and what we did for the last presentation is to have everyone assigned to a seperate section so that we don’t have to wait for the final draft from someone else to begin our own. I think we all agrees that in terms of teamwork we all have a lot to learn.
REFERENCE Admin. (2010), “Fibre Composite Adaptive Systems“, site accessed 10 Apr 2012, <http://www. evolo.us/architecture/fibre-composite-adaptive-systems/> Furuto, A. (2010), “Dirichlet Modular Decomposition”, site accessed 3 Mar 2012, <http://www. archdaily.com/97040/dirichlet-modular-decomposition-arthur-toth/> Furuto, A. (2012), “Milad Complex Proposal / ContemporARchitectURban Designers Group”, site accessed 18 Mar 2012, <http://www.archdaily.com/97040/dirichlet-modular-decompositionarthur-toth/> High Line Official Site. (n.d.) “High Line Design“, site accessed 20 Apr 2012, <http://www. thehighline.org/design/high-line-design> Lauren, DB.(2012), “Sameep Padora and Associates: Indigo Deli“, site accessed 8 Mar 2012, <http://www.designboom.com/weblog/cat/9/view/19234/sameep-padora-and-associatesindigo-deli.html> MIT Media Lab. (2011), “CityHome”, site accessed 5 Mar 2012, <http://cp.media.mit.edu/ research/67-cityhome> R. BOUWMEESTER & ASSOCIATES. (2009), “Sun Glare“, site accessed 3 May 2012, <http:// cp.media.mit.edu/research/67-cityhome> Watz, M. (2008), “Generator X: Sound as Frozen Space”, site accessed 5 Mar 2012, <http://www. generatorx.no/20080714/frozen-sound-as-space/> Wyndham City Councili. (2010), “Werribee South Green Wedge Policy and Management Plan _October 2010_a“, site accessed 2 Apr 2012, <www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/>