Studio Air 2013
Ravi Bessabava Tutors: Tom & Finn
Contents Part 0: Introduction
0.1. Previous Works & Experience
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Part A: Expression of Interest I: Case for Innovation A.1. Architecture as a Discourse
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A.2. Computational Architecture
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A.3. Parametric Modelling
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A.4. Algorithmic Explorations
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A.5. Conclusion
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A.6. Learning Outcomes
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Part B: Expression of Interest II: Design Approach B.1. Design Focus B.2. Case Study 1.0 B.3. Case Study 2.0 B.4. Technique: Development B.5. Technique: Prototypes B.6. Technique: Proposal B.7. Algorithmic Sketches B.8. Learning Objectives & Outcomes
Part C: Project Proposal C.1. Gateway Project: Design Concept C.2. Gateway Project: Tectonic Elements C.3. Gateway Project: Final Model C.4. Algorithmic Sketches C.5. Learning Objectives & Outcomes
Part D: References D.1. Reference List
Part 0
Introduction
0.1. Previous Works & Experience
About Me My name is Ravi, I’m currently in my third year of a Bachelor of Environments, Majoring in Architecture at The University of Melbourne. My interest in architecture began through a general interest in the design field. Gradually this interest developed into more of a passion & therefore seemed like a logical step towards a profession that fulfills both the creative & technical aspects of the design process. As architecture has a very tangible impact on the world I feel it is a good place to initiate ideas of sustainability thereby instigating a behavioural change in society at large. I have a keen interest in geometry & am inspired by the works of architects such as Buckminister Fuller, Louis Kahn, Michael Hansmeyer & Thomas Heatherwick. This journal is a record of my learning and developing understanding of digital design techniques over the duration of the Studio Air Course.
What is Digital Architecture? At a basic level digital architecture is the utilisation of digital tools to execute an architectural brief. Digital tools enable processes that were traditionally done by hand to be exectued in a more time efficient manner, however they also allow experimentation & generation of complex geometries. These digital tools also enable physical constraints (e.g. gravity) to be simulated & allows the resulting data of such a simulation to be integrated into the design form. Therefore digital architecture can be seen as a [r] evolutionary step in the building design & construction process allowing a new realm of possibilities to be explored which encourages a new approach to the design process & allows for an integration with current fabrication techniques.
Previous Works & Experience I have previous experience with a number of programs including: Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Cinema 4d, AutoCAD & Rhinoceros. My experience using Rhinoceros is limited to the major project for the subject Virtual Environments. Our project brief was to design a form based upon a natural process that we would fabricate into a wearable lantern. The natural process I chose was erosion, which I then applied to the trapezius & deltoid muscles of the human back. The forms generated were then modelled in Rhino where I explored the use of point/curve attractors & custom panelling. The panelling function enabled the fabrication process to take place. This process reaffirmed the varying outcomes that different tools can achieve (e.g. manual vs digital processes). I am excited to be further exploring the possibilities of digital architecture & learning about parametric design as I can see the amazing possibilities of using this type of generative tool in architectural practice.
Part A
Expression of Interest I: Case for Innovation
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Figure 1. ETFE Domes at Eden Project1
A.1. Architecture as a Discourse
Eden Project Sir Nicholas Grimshaw cornwall, uk (2000)
Figure 1. Eden Project2
The Eden Project, designed by Sir Nicholas Grimshaw, is a unique project that has been made possible by new technologies & utilises digital techniques. The project comprises of a visitors centre (seen in the foreground of figure 1) & a series of eight interlinked geodesic domes which create the world’s largest plant enclosure.3 The design has been quite obviously inspired by Buckminister Fuller, while the innovative use of ethylene-tetrafluoroethylene, (ETFE) as a cladding material works to minimise materials yet maximise space showing a focus on efficiency. The design decisions made in this project have influenced more recent buildings such as the Beijing National Aquatics Center which utilises the same ETFE material and also the structural optimisation gained through the use of geodesic curves.
It could be said that this project belongs to an ecological movement, even though some of the material choices could be interpreted as detrimental to the environment, the overall achievement of ‘more for less’ is commendable. The project also acts as a sustainability hub where people can learn about new technologies (in the visitors centre) & how to make sustainable choices in their own home which will hopefully change their pattern of living thereby creating a positive change in the world at large. The Eden Project is currently one of the top three charging attractions in the UK showing people’s appreciation for such a unique project.4
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A.1. Architecture as a Discourse
Subdivided Columns: A New Order Michael Hansmeyer
gwangju design biennale, korea (2011)
Figure 1. The Sixth Order by Michael Hansmeyer1
This project consists of a four 2.7m high abstracted Doric columns with six million faces each. The columns have been fabricated from laser cut 1mm thick white perspex. This project relies solely upon digital technologies for its design & fabrication to create unimaginable shapes.4
Subdivided Columns: A New Order could be classified as part of the post-modern movement with references to Gaudi’s Sagrada Família through its highly articulated ornamentation & classical architecture through the Doric proportions of the columns.
Although this project is not a ‘building’, it is designed as a sculptural building component which contributes a great deal to architectural discourse & algorithmic design possibilities. The theory behind the columns involves the folding of surfaces based upon the PSUB PIXAR subdivision algorithm5, something that would be if not impossible extremely challenging & time consuming to do without the use of digital technology.
It would be naive to say that this project will bring about a positive change in the world at large, however the theory behind this project is pushing the boundaries of current design & fabrication technologies which has great implications for the future of digital architecture.
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Figure 2. The Sixth Order by Michael Hansmeyer2
Figure 3. The Sixth Order by Michael Hansmeyer3
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“Computational design tools need to be more closely connected with the building process.� Kai Strehlke, 20131
Figure 1. Completed HygroScope1 14
Figure 1. Central opening building2
A.2. Computational Architecture
Messe Basel - New Hall
Herzog + De Meuron basel, switzerland (2013)
Figure 2. Articulated façade treatment3
With a specialised Digital Technology Group, Herzog and De Meuron are able to fully utilise the possibilities for computational design however are adament that “the focus is more on design intent and the architectural idea and concept. We try to find the right tool, and develop the tool to make the concept work.�4
is currently resulting in the high costs associated with the utilisation of new technologies (such as 3d printing). Which although give the ability to experiment and actualise form may encourage impractical design decisions.5
Herzog and De Meuron therefore rely on more common digital construction methods such as The design industry is going through a shift in the CNC milling to produce the majority of the way in which designers design as the utilisation of elements in their projects. computers allows for enhanced design possibilities The highly articulated surfaces on this project which can lead to more complex and elegant thast resemble woven paper are more than solutions to age old design probelms. However the ornamental expression as they act to filter light adoption of computation in the architecutral field into the exhibition spaces within. Once again is not without its challenges. The construction and computation is essential to such a design and manufacturing industries are faced with a challenge surface treatment first for the calculationjs and to meet the needs and capabilities of current design adjustments of such complex structures but also for possibilities. The current gap between design and fabrication via CNC milling. construction possibilities poses a challenge as it 15
A.2. Computational Architecture
Swiss Re Headquaters Foster + Partners london, uk (1997-2004)
Figure 1. Completed building1
Drawing precedent from Buckminster Fuller’s Climatroffice, Foster + Partners iconic Swiss Re Headquaters is a model for computational architecture.4 It combines complex forms that are optimised to suit environmental conditions.
suitable for a high rise building such as the Swiss Re Headquaters. Additionally computation also means that more design possibilities can be analysed and selected designs can be refined quicker, in more depth and more effectivley than ever before.
It is clear that computing quickens processes, allows for recursive inputs, and enables more complex geometries to be calculated, but what does this mean for the design process? Computing has had a great effect on the design process for this project through the calculation of complex geometries and the structural capabilities of such forms
Performance oriented results are perhaps the most inspiring and useful aspects of computation contributions to the design field. The Swiss Re Headquaters demonstrates the intergration of solar access in a complex structure which has been modelled as an optimal solution to fit the architectural intent.
The implications of faster processing, drawing and editing abilities means more time can be spent on theoretical aspects affecting a design. Such as developing a more aerodynamic building form 16
A.2. Computational Architecture
Figure 2. Virtual wind tunnel tests of Swiss Re Headquaters2
Figure 3. Conceptual sketches of solar access and ventilation paths3
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“Scripting [is] a driving force for 21st century architectural thinking.� Burry, M (2011)1
Figure 1. Completed HygroScope4 18
A.3. Parametric Modelling
HygroScope
Achim Menges in collaboration with Steffen Reichert centre pompidou, paris, france (2012)
“Computation and materialisation are inherently and inseparably related.” Menges, A (2012)2
Figure 2. Parametric model of HygroScope showing different reactive elements3
The HygroScope Project by Achim Menges in collaboration with Steffen Reichert is one project that exemplifies the possibilities of computational design and parametric modelling. Climate data, material properties, and parametric modelling all combine to produce an aesthetically pleasing, environmentally reactive form requiring no mechanical or electronic devices. Parametric processes employed in this project include: designing the substructure, modeling the overall shape, optimising the material usage, and ensuring planarity of the moving elements therby avoiding any collisions.5 The HygroScope is comprised of 4000 unique digitally fabricated elements and the complex substructure which work together to produce an elegant design that appears to react in an almost biological fashion.
The merits of this project with regard to architecutral discourse is that it is a sculptural experiment that could be adopted as an novel solution to a building ventilation system without the need for electrical or mechanical inputs. The shortfalls of this project is that it may be considered as what Michael Meridith refers to as “the mastering of hi-tech engineering software.. [to]... ultimately...produce ornate architectural decoration” resulting in a complex and overly ornamental design that performs a simple function (ie opening a window).6 However, in the context of architecutral discourse this project is an innovative example that focuses on the junction between parametric modelling and material functions to produce an elegant, responsive form that demonstrates current technological possibilities. 19
A.3. Parametric Modelling
Aviva Stadium Populous
dublin, irl (2010)
Figure 1. Completed stadium1
One of the most innovative features of this project is the use of a shared parametric model among all parties involved in its design and manufacturing. This approach allowed “global design alterations to be carried out simultaneously with detailed design development, eliminating any abortive work� thereby creating a non-linear, integrated design process.4
Regardless, organisation of the digital space and flow of information enabled a heirachical design process while the parametric nature of the project enabled changes to occur and be implemented dynamically. For example the building footprint was designed before the cladding was finalised, the parametric model allowed th footprint to be recalculated with minimal trouble.7
A key factor in this project was organisation. At the begining of the project naming and construction orders needed to be implemented and agreed upon to ensure the files did not become messy with so many people working on them.5 The direction of the flow of implemented changes was also established, ie architectural adjustments would flow to the structural engineers model but not visa versa.6 It is arguable that this restricted design flow could have inhibited a truely optimised process. 20
This project presents an interesting model for future projects, as it exemplifies the advanced levels of collaboration and non-linear design processes that are possible through the use of parametric modelling. This approach results in work becoming more efficient, project times reducing due to the adoption of parametric modelling and a non design approach, and increased levels of optimisation due to the discourse occuring between parties involved in a project.
Figure 2. Collaborative design process2
Figure 3. Geometric Envelope Definitions3
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A.4. Algorithmic Explorations
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A.4. Algorithmic Explorations
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A.5. Conclusion
“[Computation]...creates endless opportunities to explore for forms that are not practically reachable otherwise.� Woodbury (Elements of Parametric Culture, 2010 pg 39)
In the beginning computers were programmed to emulate tasks perfomed by hand, namely drafting, as in Ivan Sutherlands 1963 Sketchpad System, which demonstrated the basic advantages of computation. We have relatively recently moved from simple 2d drafting to a far more complex 3d realm which allows more complex forms to be calculated. It is evident that architectural practice has been influenced through historical precedents and that computational architecture has elements which hark back to the futurists of the early 20th Century. However differing from futurism, current architectural design practices have the ability to learn from the mistakes of the past and through the adoption of computational processes help to innovate the current state of the design and construction industries thereby reduce its impact on the world at large. 24
In short, computation allows much more complex results to be calculated and a far greater amount of variables to be assessed, which has huge implications for the future of building technologies. Computational tools open the door to previously unreachable goals and can be utilised to create more efficent building designs utilising less materials for structural stability, enhance their environmental performance and occupant comfort levels.
A.6. Learning Outcomes
“The history of design can be read as a constantly changing process of exploring for new form-making ideas, using whatever tools and intellectual concepts are at hand� Woodbury (Elements of Parametric Culture, 2010 pg 39)
Through the process of this expreession of interest, my own knowledge of computation and parametric modelling in the architectural field has expanded to include elements of current architerctural discourse, and examples of how these elements are put into practice in real projects. Examination of the current discourse surrounding computational design has increased my interest in the field and reaffirmed the necessity of computation and scritpint in architecture. Of particular relevance to the gateway project is the workflow of the Populous firm in their Aviva Stadium project, I can see these organisation factors playing a key role in our major group project.
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References Part A: Expression of Interest I: Case for Innovation A.1 Architecture as Discourse Eden Project 1. http://www.archreh.com/Eden_Project/EdenProject4.jpg (EDEN IMAGE BIG) 2. Viewed 13/3/13 <http://blog.emap.com/footprint/files/2009/06/eden-project.jpg> 3. Bissegger, K (2006) Viewed 13/3/13 <http://www.caa.uidaho.edu/arch504ukgreenarch/CaseStudies/ EdenProject1.pdf> 4. Grimshaw, N, viewed 13/03/13 <http://grimshaw-architects.com/project/the-eden-project-the-biomes/>
Subdivided Columns: A New Order 1. Hansmeyer, M, viewed 13/03/13 <http://tedconfblog.files.wordpress.com/2012/07/8_fabricated_column_ outside_ii.jpg> 2. http://tedconfblog.files.wordpress.com/2012/07/2_prototypes.jpg 3. http://www.michael-hansmeyer.com/images/columns/columns_m3.jpg 4. Hansmeyer, M, viewed 13/03/13 <http://www.michael-hansmeyer.com/projects/columns_info3.html?screenSize =1&color=1#undefined> INFO 5. Hansmeyer, M, viewed 13/03/13 <http://www.michael-hansmeyer.com/projects/columns_info. html?screenSize=1&color=1> INFO
A.2 Computational Architecture Messe Basel: New Hall 1. Strehlke, K (2013) AD magazine pg 58 2. viewed 20/03/13 <https://www.artbasel.com/-/media/ArtBasel/Pictures/Press_Images_Basel/General_ Imrpessions/NewExhibitionHallHall1.jpg> 3 viewed 20/03/13 <http://thesuperslice.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Messe-Basel-New-Hall-Herzog-deMeuron-01.jpg> 4. Strehlke, K (2013) AD magazine pg 58 5. Strehlke, K (2013) AD magazine pg 58
Swiss Re Headquaters 1. viewed 22/03/13 <http://www.saa.vg/imagenes/fotos/pr-gherkin.jpg> 2. viewed 22/03/13 <http://www.architectureweek.com/cgi-bin/awimage?dir=2005/0504&article=tools_1-2. html&image=12682_image_2.jpg> 3. viewed 22/03/13 <http://www.fosterandpartners.com/projects/swiss-re-headquarters-30-st-mary-axe/> 4. viewed 22/03/13 <http://www.fosterandpartners.com/projects/swiss-re-headquarters-30-st-mary-axe/>
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A.3 Parametric Modelling HygroScope 1. Burry. M. 2011 “Scripting Cultures" pg 17 AD magazine 2. Menges A 2012 http://www.achimmenges.net/?p=5083 3. Viewed 30/03/13 <http://www.grasshopper3d.com/photo/hygroscope-parametric-model-ii/next?context=user> 4. Viewed 30/03/13 <http://www.grasshopper3d.com/photo/hygroscope-geometry-control-dials/ next?context=user> 5. Menges A 2012 http://www.achimmenges.net/?p=5083 6. Meredith. M in Burry. M. 2011 “Scripting Cultures” pg 17 AD magazine
Aviva Stadium 1. Murphy. D Viewed 30/03/13 < http://populous.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Aviva-Stadium_ArchitectPopulous-and-Scott-Tallon-Walker_Photo-%C2%A9Donal-Murphy_1839_203D-990x465.jpg> 2. Viewed 30/03/13 <http://people.bath.ac.uk/ps281/research/publications/ijac_preprint1.pdf> 3. Viewed 30/03/13 <http://people.bath.ac.uk/ps281/research/publications/ijac_preprint1.pdf> 4. AD magazine pg 66 5. Viewed 30/03/13 <http://people.bath.ac.uk/ps281/research/publications/ijac_preprint2.pdf> 6. Viewed 30/03/13 <http://people.bath.ac.uk/ps281/research/publications/ijac_preprint1.pdf> 7. Viewed 30/03/13 <http://people.bath.ac.uk/ps281/research/publications/ijac_preprint1.pdf>
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