ARCHITECTURE DESIGN STUDIO AIR JOURNAL
335181 Qiuxu Wei
PART 1. Expression of Interest CASE FOR INNOVATION Architecture as a Discourse MERGING I’VE HEARD ABOUT WENDY
3-4 5-6 7-8
Computing in Architecture King Abdulla Petroleum Studies & Research Center TAKE OFF
9-10 11-12
Parametric Modelling LIVING BRIDGE REptile
13-14 15-16
Case for Innovation Conclusion
17-18
RESEARCH PROJECT Kalay’s Method for developing possibilities Input/Association/Output Matrix Reverse-Engineered Case-Study BANQ Restaurant
27-32
Assembly Methods Version 1~3 Version 4 Version 5
33-34 35-36 37-42
Material Effects Research Project Conclusion Expression of Interest Conclusion: Competitive Advantage Learning Objectives and Outcomes: Interim
43-44 45 46 47
19 20-26
PART 2. Project proposal Project interpretation Site analysis
50-51
Project delivery Further develop -- Version 6
52-53
CONTENT
Project Presentation Finalized Fabrication Perspective Weathering
54-55 56-57 58-59 40-41
Project Proposal Conclusion
42-43
PART 3. Learning objectives and outcome Personal background and learning objectives Learning Progress Learning Outcomes Future work
44 45-46 47 48
ARCHITECTURE | as discourse
////// ADS earth: Merging
ABOUT THIS PROJECT This is a project aimed to provide an exhibition space on a heritage site -- Herring Island. Contrasting with site context and inviting interaction with the natural landscape are the main design motivations. The goal is achieved by inserting the building into the landscape and articulate a journey inside the building by a curvilinear form. The building form is accomplished by 3D modeling in Rhino. the three volume of the design branches out into the landscape and curvature also applied to the contour like staircase in the amphitheater. HOW DOES IT ADVANCES ARCHITECTURE DISCOURSE? The conflicts between a contemporary installation and historic conservation on site is pointed out during the jury. In this regard, finding a way to preserve the past while perusing the ‘new architecture’ is an ongoing discourse.
Personal Project: Merging Design Studio Earth-2011
Exhibited in Open Day 2011
“Digital modeling software offers a rich repertoire of transformations a designer could use to further explore formal potentialities of an already conceived geometry� -- taken from Architecture in the Digital Age: Design and Manufacturing By Kolarevic
SPECIFIC AREAS THAT RELEVANT TO THE GATEWAY PROJECT Instead of confirming to conventional architectural style, through the use of new technologies such as computer modeling, complex and innovative geometry and structure can conceivably be built. Therefore, In respond to the gateway project brief that calls for an eye-catching and innovative installation, the gateway design will be largely based on computation.
ARCHITECTURE | as discourse
////// WENDY
“Wendy crafts an environment, not just a space.”
State of the Art Project 1 WENDY by HWKN
Winner of MoMA/P.S1 Young Architects Program Competition
ABOUT THE PROJECT Wendy is composed of nylon fabric treated with a ground breaking titanic nanoparticle spray to neutralize airborne pollutants. Spiky arms will reach out with micro-programs like blasts of cool air, music, water cannons and mists to create social zones throughout the courtyard. It also features a simple, inexpensive construction system: the scaffold is deployed efficiently to create a 70’ x 70’ x 45’ volume to form the largest surface area possible.
HOW DOES IT ADVANCES ARCHITECTURE DISCOURSE? The design addresses environmental issue including sustainability and recycling, as one of the issues centered in current architectural discourse. A temporal installation like this is not merely served as a visual joy for the music festival but more of a device that restore urban ecology. It departs from the conventional impression of architecture which is more about its stylistic form rather than the relation with the community and environment. Technological innovation has advanced the project and contemporary practice on irregular form and structure is shown. Material and structural intelligence are both achieved. HOW DOES IT RELATE TO THE GATEWAY PROJECT? Wendy’s boundary is defined by tools like shade, wind, rain, music, and visual identity to reach past the confines of physical limits. Broadening the effect of the design is a way to get more people involve and ensure a certain amount of audience. Grasping the eyesights of the majority will be the next goal for an innovative design. Because supportive clients are necessary for innovation in architecture, and the Wyndham city council is asking for an iconic installation that could ‘inspires and enriches the municipality’ (project brief ), the role of the citizen would be paramount in this project.
ARCHITECTURE | as discourse
////// I’ve Heard About
State of the Art Project 2 I’ve Heard About By R&Sie(n)
Award at FEIDAD 2005-06
“Its physical composition of such form renders the community’s political structure visible.”
ABOUT THE PROJECT The project ‘I’ve Heard About’ builds on the idea of a fragile city, with its architectural theory founded on principles of random growth and permanent incompletion. Reproducing building materials from the recycled and expanding the urban from the existing structure presents the idea of everlasting urban growth. It recognizes unpredictable changes of the future as the random development has no pre-established plan.
HOW DOES IT ADVANCE ARCHITECTURAL DISCOURSE? Such conceptual city form has advanced both architectural and urban discourses. Rather than wiping out the pre-existing city, sedimentary deposit forms over the present structure. Whether the unpredictable and random built form recognizes environmental and moral issues is disputable. It has established a new form of living and addresses urban ecology simultaneously. Although the project is not yet commenced in real life building practice, it is still a thoughtful concept not only contribute to the exploration on materiality and structure but also investigates a brand new design theory -- let the community dominate the design/future changes. HOW DOES IT RELATE TO PROJECT BRIEF? Unpredictable influences generate by human factors in this project allow future changes in form. Giving the design space for changes under human or natural influence instead of a fixed gesture poses more interest for the public. As mentioned in the project brief that the design ‘will have longevity in its appeal, encouraging ongoing interest in the Western Interchange by encouraging further reflection about the installation beyond a first glance.’(Western Gateway Design project brief ), a thoughtful selection on material and structure is most likely to accommodates this goal.
COMPUTATIONAL | design
//////King Abdulla Petroleum Studies & Research Center
ABOUT THIS PROJECT The project focused on structure capabilities of continuous expansion and transformation from the desert. The team has utilized cellular structure of crystalline forms as to achieve this goal (also called as an ORGANIC FORM). By shifting and evolving such cellular structure as a response to environmental conditions. As a forward-looking piece, it highlighted the spatial strategies fulfilling environmental conditions and functional requirements. PROJECT VIDEO ACCESS ON -- http://www.zaha-hadid.com/architecture/king-abdullah-petroleum-studies-and-research-centre/
By Zaha Hadid Architects Riyadh, 2009-2012
WHAT IS UNIQUE AND INNOVATIVE IN THIS PROJECT? Computational architecture is centered in Zaha Hadid’s design office. Digital aided design enables a physical transformation from conceptual architecture to built works. Computer technology not only translate ideas precisely but also it create new architectural expression. Treated the design as a natural organism let the form grows from and spreads into the desert. Hence this project has its local identity. THE TECHNIQUE APPLIED FOR THIS PROJECT It is said by Hadid that ‘...certain 3D modeling and animation tools introduce whole new series of “primitives” and manipulative operations which are highly suggestive with respect to new architectural morphologies and the conceptual build up of an architectural composition. ‘ Through the use of computer modeling, composition of each cells is done in simulating the leaf structure. Geometry of the cells is articulated by direction light sources. The design is treated as a natural organism.
SIMILAR APPROACH TO BE APPLIED TO GATEWAY PROJECT Because of the informal specified restrictions implied by project brief, a vast range of explorations can be carried out. Here, computational design gives rises to new possibilities. Moreover, the idea of simulating natural forms -- cellular structure of crystalline forms -- has given Hadid’s design a strong conceptual base. Thus founding the gateway design on a concept would give rise to a forward-looking image. Giving the Gate Way design a futuristic perspective relates to the demand for an eye-catching, inspiring and enriching experience.
COMPUTATIONAL | design
////// Take Off - Aerospace Installation
Project team: Bernhard Franken, Frank Brammer, Nils-Peter Fischer, Tasso Effraimidis, Oliver Tessmann
Awarded in iF communication design
“Parametric design, often linking the contextual with the metaphorical, is a transparent and formal approach to the creation of a narrative architecture.� - BERNHARD FRANKEN
ABOUT THIS PROJECT The winning piece of the Munich Airport installation is generated parametrically from user movement flows and takes the form of a suspended aerofoil shapes like wing section. The project integrated with the site well as it echoes with the metaphorical meaning of the dynamism of the space. The installation consists 2 different images on each side of the lamella. The vision changes as people move through the space. In doing so, it is becoming a form of media. WHAT IS UNIQUE AND INNOVATIVE ABOUT THIS PROJECT It is obvious here that parametric modeling has broaden the architectural realm to media production. The process of the form generation is simple while it successfully creates dynamic geometry that woven through the space. It blends in the space well and being visually effective simultaneously. The visual effects of the installation varies from different viewpoints, due to the rotation of panels. TECHNIQUE APPLIED FOR THE DESIGN As a place for transition, the project team consider acceleration, movement, speed and change of locations. Parametric strategy not only contributes to the form finding process but also to the structure of the design. As a result that the grand scale installation are constructed by non-standard pieces, it is hard to accommodates them rigidly through the twisted ruber node. Parametric techniques helped generate an optimized connector for the twisted shape to enable a smooth transformation of forces. SIMILAR APPROACH THAT WILL BE INTEGRATE INTO THE GATEWAY PROJECT Here, the dual success of its visual effects as wells as the metaphorical geometry are the features I want to integrate into the Wyndham city project. The simple concept that translated by parametric modeling appears to be effective and capable of creating an ILLUSION for the space.
CONTEMPORARY | scripting cultures ////// REptile_Haku Japanese Restaurant
REptile Haku Japanese Restaurant By Evan Douglis
ABOUT SCRIPTING Scripting offers access to whole new ways of exploring design. It can refer to higher-level computer programming where, in the ‘open-source’ environment, ‘libraries’ of functions can be combined with preconfigured routines (algorithms) as a means to produce manufacturer-independent digital design capability.’ As a ‘voyage of discovery’ scripting opens up opportunities for innovation and it allows designer to customize the software to assist with their own approach. -- Scripting Cultures: Architectural Design and Programming with Mark Burry
‘...architects develop the statement of goals gradually as they proceed through the design process itself.’ -- taken from Architecture’s New Media : Principles, Theories, and Methods of Computer-Aided Design By Kalay
DESIGN PHILOSOPHY The design method used in the REptile project can be seen as Puzzle Making. Evan Douglis stated that the design ‘[Aims] to create the illusion of flux and a surface undergoing continuous change’ by organizing the pyramid pattern according to refraction and reflection of lights. A critical criteria is reached after a generative development through computation. A diverse solution is produced and as the criteria becomes clearer, the priority set of emergent skins in relation to Douglis’ overall design objectives can be selected. DESIGN LOGIC THAT WOULD INTEGRATE WITH THE GATEWAY PROJECT This project explores possibilities of ‘intricacy of surfaces’ which tended to contribute to a new era of architectural membranes. Computational design, especially scripting, has made a successful approach in stirring up a new dinning experience and being innovative as the intricate surface is almost like a changing animation seen from different perspectives. The ‘ILLUSION’ and ‘ANIMATED light effects’ picked up from this precedence is worth to be trailed in the Gate Way Project in accordance with the uniqueness and attractiveness stated in the project brief. Natural lighting is the most accessible source on site for creating an impressive atmosphere for the project, especially for creating a sense of transition’ for entering either Melbourne CBD or the Wyndham City. Parametric design has confronted to its capability of producing diverse possibilities and it enables research into uncertainties. As a transcendent technology in favor of its unexpected behavior and theatrical command, parametric modeling will be the core technique used in the gateway project design.
CONTEMPORARY | scripting cultures ////// Living Bridge
DESIGN PHILOSOPHY The Mapping and scripting strategy has transformed movement and interactions and forms a dynamic space that connects and activates the riverfront. Agent based design method is used here, it seems to be a bottomup strategy to give the design a local identity. The uniqueness of the data represents the UNIQUENESS of the design. The designers’ strategy points to form a logical complex system by integrating human factors while scripting. To my point of view, the complexity of this design confirms a new aesthetic instead of chaos. Also, the logic of can be revealed from the design process, which are: Movement patterns of people and vehicles in the city is modeled into vector field; Decking agents identified walking, cycling, and vehicular paths through analysis on the field; Finally, the designers introduced self-organizing components that changed their shape and connectivity depending on the turbulence of the field.
RELEVANCE TO THE GATEWAY PROJECT BRIEF The Living Brige design shows a successful example of balancing complexity and logicality. A logical process is likely to be carried out in the Gateway design. The design of the gateway proposal will be working consistently with the audience, which is to consider how the visitor would experience the installation visually. Similar with the Living Bridge, its performance is based on the nature of people’s movement. Human factor once again being emphasized in the design. Agent base design provides a channel for innovation and it becomes expressive by using scripting and programing technique. This precedence formed an approval for the use of parametric design for the Gateway project as it not only generate new aesthetics and a form with logic but also its relation with data allow a vast range of sources input.
Living Bridge By David Eaton, Geoffrey Klein & Michael Wetmore
CONCLUSION | case for innovation ////////////////
1
2
4
5
6
7
1.Merging 2.Wendy 3.I’ve Heard About 4.King Abdulla Petroleum Studies & Research center 5.Take Off 6.Living Bridge 7.REptile
3
According to the Western Gateway project brief, the Wyndham city council is looking for inspiring installations that is going to be innovative and eye-catching. The design should aim to be accessible and comprehensible by audiences from varies background. And it should be iconic and giving a sense of transition. Precedences such as Wendy and the research center by Zaha Hadid has poses the effectiveness of creating a local identity for the design. Such approach would be applicable in the demand for inspiring and enriching the municipality. Irregular and curvilinear geometries (shown in The Living Bridge and Take Off ) can give rise to new aesthetics, which therefore can contribute to architecture discourse. Moreover, as Parametric design has so much to offer and has so much potential to contribute to innovation, it will dominate our future design. Our goal is to engage audience with the design visually. Since passers by are travelled in high speed and can only experience the project in a short period of time, the design should aim to produce a dynamic effect that create different visions or feeling during the journey. Examples such as Take Off and REptile have successfully convey such message to the audience. Therefore, ‘ILLUSION’ and ‘DYNAMISM’ will be the main focus for later experimentations.
REFERENCE I’ve Heard About, by R&Sie(n), Accessed from http://www.new-territories.com/ I’veheardabout.htm Wendy, by HWKN, Accessed from http://www.dezeen.com/?s=wendy Vidler, anthony (2000). ‘Review of Rethinking Architecture and The Anaesthetics of Architecture by Neal Leach’, harvard design Magazine, 11, pp. 1-4, p. 3 (accessed from week 1 lecture slides) King Abdulla Petroleum Studies & Research Center, By Zaha Hadid Architects, Accessed from http://www.zaha-hadid.com/ http://www.patrikschumacher.com/Texts/digitalhadid.htm Take Off images accessed from http://www.franken-architekten.de/index.php?pagetype=pr ojectdetail&lang=de&cat=-1&param=overview&param2=211&param3=0& Morgan, Conway Llyod (2008), Franken Architekten: Spatial Narratives (Avedition GmbH) Kolarevic, Branko, Architecture in the Digital Age: Design and Manufacturing (New York; London: Spon Press, 2003), pp. 3 - 62. Living Bridge, By David Eaton, Geoffrey Klein & Michael Wetmore Accessed from http://www.evolo.us/architecture/algorithmic-architecture-inhabitable-bridge-in-tokyo/ and http://www.suckerpunchdaily.com/2012/02/16/living-bridge/ Agentware Project, Accessed from http://www.biothing.org/ Brayer, Marie-Ange (2009), Biothing, Alisa Andrasek, (Orleans:HYX) REptile - Haku Japanese Retaurant, By Evan Douglis, Accessed from Syn_athr(0)isis Exhibition info http://issuu.com/yota_adilenidou/docs/synathroisis http://www.synathroisis.net/ http://www.evandouglis.com/ Yehuda E. Kalay, Architecture’s New Media : Principles, Theories, and Methods of Computer-Aided Design (Cambridge, Mass.: MIT Press, 2004), pp. 5 - 25
MATRIX | cut&develop ////// Method
KALAY’S DESIGN METHOD Design method based on Yehuda Kalay’s used at the stage of producing possible outcomes using grasshopper definitions is, Search for possible outcome: Depth first and then breadth Before moving on to a new combination of input/association/output, it is better to exhaust the possibilities of the present outcome. As there’s almost 90 possible outcomes, a thorough exploration can then lead to a trustworthy selection of outcomes for further exploration. However, due to the lack of formal constraint of the project brief and the much-too vague selection criteria, it is necessary to clarify the design goal. another method used is, During the selection phase: constraint satisfaction As the goal is to maximise the advantages of using parametric design tools and providing a design that is eyecatching and innovative, the constraint will be evaluated on the outcomes’ aesthetic and dynamism.
INPUT
ASSOCIATION
OUTPUT
CI = curve intersection EG = explicit grid BP = boolean patterning AP = arbitrary point SN = surface normal OP = overlapping pattern G = surface grid
P = point attractor CA = curve attractor IS = image sampler US = using set MF = multiple math function M = math function ST = streaming text file
EX =data driven extrusion SH = data driven shading RO = data driven rotation DC = data driven component
MATRIX INDEX (input + association + output)
MATRIX | cut&develop ////////////
Explicit grid + Image Sampler + Data Driven Component
Curve intersection + Curve attractor + Data Driven Rotation
BIRD SWARM
Overlap pattern + Using set + Data Driven Rotation
Kokkugia SWARM URBANISM
Explicit grid + Multiple Math Function + Data Driven Rotation
Explicit grid + Math Function + Data Driven Rotation
thessaloniki Greece Madren 5340
Explicit grid + Image Sampler + Data Driven Rotation
Explicit grid + Curve Attractor + Data Driven Rotation
In accordance with the ‘constraint satisfaction’ method, outcomes that have dynamic performance are picked. These versions foresees the possibilities of creating effects of visual distortion, light filtering and illusion that directly link to the goal of innovation. Using simple associative techniques here tested the possible dynamic outcomes.
MATRIX | cut&develop //////selection_Dynamism
Explicit Grid + Multiple Math Function + Data Driven Extrusion
Temporary Performance Space for the Sydney Festival 2012 Iain Blampied + Oliver Hessian
layer 1
layer 2 a dynamic performance envelope a machine that mirrors a multiplicity of worlds
The fabric is composed by 2 layers. Diameter of circles differs. Although circles are arranged evenly on each surface, density varies due to the extrusion heights are determined by the input math functions. The extrusion has made it buildable .
The precedence project consists of two layers of the skin which explore the use of color, creating a dynamic effect when moving passed the elevation as one layer’s density read against the other, and as the transparency shifts with the perspective. The outcome of the above definitions shares similarities with the precedence as they both has two skins that have its own assembly information. And extrusion of particles makes the outcome manufacturable. The precedence’s successfully pose a dynamic journey and vision changes with the shifts of perspectives. GateWay installation for Wyndham city definitely needs such approach as to create an ongoing interest for audiences.
MATRIX | cut&develop //////selection_Illusion
Reverse | engineering
////// case study -- BANQ restaurant
BANQ restaurant /office DA
ABOUT THE PRECEDENCE The design is striated wood-slatted system that conceals the view of the mechanical, plumbing, and lighting systems on the longitudinal axis, while offering a virtual canopy under which to dine. The geometry of the wood slats conform to each equipment above, but are also radiused in order to smoothen the relationship between other adjoining equipment, creating a seamless landscape. If the longitudinal axis emphasizes the seamless surface, then lateral views offer striated glimpses into the service space above, and demystify the illusion. To underline this strategy, certain areas of the ceiling “drip” and “slump”, acknowledging the location of to place exit signs, lighting features, and other details. -- EXTRACT FROM ARCH DAILY
The structural drawing has shown that the ‘slump’ is attached with columns and there is frame attached with wood slats for holding the suspended ceiling system. Therefore while modeling using grasshopper, the logic of structural composition should be clarified first.
beans
frame
column
ground
Parametric modeling is not only essential for form finding but also it is capable of generating the structural assemblies precisely. It is efficient and reliable. Simply changing parameters of assemblies can quickly get a satisfied outcome therefore parametric modeling tools such as grasshopper would enables he design to be built physically.
PHASE 1: FINDING FORM the ‘slump’ of geometry relates to the abrupt change of value on Z axis. Therefore changeable parameter will be set on the value of Z using decompose component.
determine the number of wood slats
PHASE 2: GENERATING STRUCTURE frame creation method addressed in EXLAB:CUT: 06. Rationalization
change the direction of contour lines and make it perpendicular to the previous in order to generate structural frames.
remap data as to change the points’ data structure. Prepare for creation of poly lines.
creation of beams above the frames
To reproduce the case study precisely, the trim job is done in Rhino. The panels should be trimmed in order to join the floor plane and column.
creation of column
Reverse | engineering
////// Learning from the failure of physical model
NOTE: this model is done in week 5, due to the failure I went back to further analyzes the structure and the design intent. Definitions have been refined and structural details are added for the digital model. The model turns out to be very unsuccessful as there is no structure, detail and meanings. We merely try to imitate the geometry of the case study and neglected scale, structure and spacing of the wood planks. Although this model does not meet any of the requirements, we gain some experience on fabrication especially some key issues we are going to concern for latter proposals. 1. Be mindful with the scale while designing the digital version 2. work consistently with the structural issue while producing the geometry 3. try to think out of the circle of the case study and not be constrained
DEVELOP| 1,2,3
////// develop and refine possible outcomes
inspired by the contouring method of generating curvy surface. I’m intended detail the model by interlocking, overlapping and distorting geometry.
curved surface genetic tool path extrusion
version 1
Same method used here. Difference is one of the layers has been rotated on either x or y axis. This version is more interesting than the previous as it has integrated complexity.
version 2
iso curves interprets surface rise and fall in a better way than contouring. Interlocking effect is shown. A rigid structure can be achieve by interlocking.
version 3 The 3rd version is preferable as it relates to the case study in accordance with its layering effect.
direction of surface extrusion is defined by vector.
further distortion of surface iso curves in order to produce a more complex outcome.
ISSUE... Although a certain level of complexity and dynamism is achieved, the previous two versions don’t seem to be able to be developed into an ‘iconic’ and ‘abstractive’ design. As the effects shown are more about surface treatment. But the interlocking strategy will be applied into later versions. Layering effect in version 3 has potential for further development.
DEVELOP| 4
////// Rationalize design method
Werribee river entrance TIDE times and heights MONTH(avr) (2012)4 LOW(midnight) 0.625 HIGH(morning) 0.65 LOW(afternoon) 0.5 HIGH(evening) 0.675
3 0.56 0.68 0.44 0.64
2
0.6 0.625 0.5 0.5
1 0.55 0.75 0.35 0.4
0.44 0.74 0.56 0.7
11 10 (2011)12
0.5 0.7 0.625 0.5
0.525 0.625 0.6 0.4
9 0.6 0.5 0.72 0.46
8 0.55 0.55 0.475 0.95
positioning curve ready for loft
low possibility for transforming to physical model
mesh surface -- divide surface into triangular makes it manufacturable
7 0.325 0.85 0.45 0.97
6 0.58 0.6 0.68 0.66
5 0.65 0.5 0.55 0.7
METHOD 1. collection of tide data help reproducing river profile - simulation of river flow underpins the importance of river to the land - data as rationale for the curvy surface we created - surface curvature symbolizes sense of dynamic movement. 2. present the data graphically and joining them to produce a continuous flow
view from top
perspective
ISSUE... This time, the geometry becomes more reasonable. However due to technical failure of producing proper grasshopper definitions, the patterning effect could not be attached on surface correctly. Another method of producing curvilinear form is trailed in version 5.
DEVELOP| 5
////// Refine the technique
Before developing version 5...... PERFORMANCE DRIVEN DESIGN It is pointed out by Jerome Frumar in his presentation on Performance Driven Design that ‘although there’s little chance to achieve fully optimization in designing, parametric tools which specifically important for the evaluation process can still shorten the gap towards optimization as it triggers an informed design decision making.’ The structural intelligence and the dynamic geometry of the case study informed the thinking of how our design would respond to physical force such as gravity, wind and vibration etc. Would it be possible that the model expresses new aesthetics while holding in place rigidly at the same time? One of the precedence brought up in the lecture triggered a design solution: A basic surface that demonstrate dynamism + other geometries that has fabrication and structural intelligence. Under the notion of these two informative cases, the design is on an adventurous journey of the search for structural + aesthetic intelligence. (ps: Parametric modeling eases the complex situation while one wants to modify a little thing from the hierarchical situation. By changing one parameters, the whole system will be updated.)
Experimenting through different techniques and realizing the difficulties of modeling physically, it is better to keep the planks vertical without any distortion (like in version 3, layers are highly distorted and curved). Also, having rationalized my way through generating a dynamic geometry, it is time to apply the method informed in ‘performance driven design’ section. Structural solution in version 1 and 2 will be applied here.
Monthly Year to Date Max Summary : 0.360 m 31/1/12 0.340 m 29/2/12 0.360 m 31/3/12 0.330 m 30/4/12 0.350 m
Min (0.660) m (0.500) m (0.660) m (0.340) m (0.400) m
Mean 0.050 m 0.009 m 0.088 m 0.084 m 0.021 m
Local river flow data will be used for simulating water waves. Wyndham Vale Rainfall & River Level Data is used in order to give local identity for the design.
Using the value of ‘MEAN’ as the z coordinates and drag surface control point (randomly selected from each column)
After morphing the surface to the one we wanted, we applied the technique in case study to transform contour lines into surfaces with certain thickness. It not only given the surface volume but also makes it manufacturable.
The contouring process similar with the one in case study.
instead of using surface loft, planar surface is cleaner. in doing so there will be a lot less mess during unfolding.
for intersecting the ribs and the contours
giving the surface thickness (consider fabrication material will be plywood, thickness is set to 2.7mm)
DEVELOP| 5 //////
the measure of digital model: 70X280m physical model will be approx. 1:1000
PRECEDENCE
DESIGN PHILOSOPHY
Version 5 relates closely to nature which will be recognized and understood easily.
Applying the idea: A basic surface that demonstrate dynamism + other geometries that has fabrication and structural intelligence.
(bottom: competition entry for Arquitetum; top: sand patterns form under the influence of air)
Ribs are generated in accordance with the geometry of the surface. Using the interlocking method implied in vision 1 gives a structural solution for this outcome. Having addressed the major issues, it can be fabricate physically.
WHY IS THIS VERSION BETTER? In version 5, surface morphology basing on river data will be rational. The process has a logical theory and underpins a certain level of locality for the Gateway project. Because the audience of the project is so broad, the design has to ensure it could be comprehended by majority. As such, this proposal is not too abstract nor literal. It is almost like an art installation but it still functions architecturally as it tackles materiality, structural performance, visual effects. Nature aesthetics is easily recognized from the model as natural patterns is common and universal.
DEVELOP| 5
////// light experiment with physical model
Lighting up ‘drops’ of the geometry reveals its structural details and dynamic geometry. Ornaments and details are strengthen by lighting. Shadow casts on each layers give vertical contours depths. ‘Ornament’ is more suited than the word ‘decoration’ because the structural composition itself function aesthetically. The design has much more freedom to play with its dynamic volume and structure. The advantage of such form is that it is beyond a mere surface. Containing volume, ornament and structure simultaneously can make it stands out from the others. It is only by exploring more options could lead one to a clarified concept and solution. Because the design is not fixed on the subject ‘surface’, there’s enough room for further experiment.
CONCLUSION| research project ////////////
DECISION MAKING Following strictly on the design initials, outcomes that satisfied dynamism and has structural intelligence are survived. Operating under Kalay’s design method, each outcomes are tested thoroughly. Natural precedences such as swarm, sand dune has given us options on how to achieve dynamism. The fluidity of the geometry is our focus. The design can be described as a performance that shows its stages vividly to the audiences in a short period of time. The chosen case study (BANQ restaurant) lead us to the outcome of using contour patterns. Fabrication process makes us realize the importance of the structure. In order to cope a dynamic geometry with structural intelligent solution, physical modeling is the best way to test these outcomes. Although it seems easy to achieve dynamism, such as a swarm of 2D geometries and a stack of extremely distorted or curved surfaces, while it comes to physical modeling, many satisfactory outcomes are eliminated. Complexity is not necessarily a preferable criteria when considering manufacturability. Whether it is rational and acceptable by the public are yet a concern.
COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE Visual performance, being one of our content, is tied with the demand from the Wyndham council. Knowing that the design ‘will have longevity in its appeal, encouraging ongoing interest in the Western Interchange by encouraging further reflection about the installation beyond a first glance.’ , Dynamism is the most affective way to pose an on going interest. Curvilinear geometry appeals on the flat site is likely to become a focal point for the western interchange. In this regard, the arose of the installation from the land catches passersby’s eyesights gradually instead of abruptly. As supportive clients are necessary for innovation in architecture, our design is not necessarily be complex and abstractive. Therefore, learning form natural forms and ornaments -- the contour aesthetic and river profile -- can be recognized by a vast range of audience and in doing so, the design connects to visitors on a universal level. The uniqueness of local river data also reveals the locality of the installation. As the use of parametric technique poses uncertainties for the design, it enables explorations on a forward looking image. Giving the Gate Way design a futuristic perspective relates to the demand for an eye-catching, inspiring and enriching experience. Parametric modeling is closely related to structural intelligence of our project not only due to its precision but also its efficiency and reliability. Indeed, in order to produce an inspiring design that could spark up a new era for architecture, such transcendent technology in favor of unexpected behavior and theatrical command should be used.
INTERIM| learning outcome ////////////
The understanding of architecture is far beyond a material production and building making, my vision opens up to a broad discipline during the stage of researching. Parametric design tools such as Grasshopper has demonstrated its strength in designing as it always poses unexpected outcome and it is easier to rationalize ones design process. It upgraded the form making strategy to form finding. As my knowledge to Grasshopper is still very basic, I find it hard to produce my design outcome precisely during fabrication. Even though we are able to come up with some ‘cool’ designs, we are not able to produce them physically due to a lack of technical knowledge and practice.
simplicity complexity new aesthetic
baldness
form making form finding
REFERENCE Yehuda E. Kalay, Architecture’s New Media : Principles, Theories, and Methods of Computer-Aided Design (Cambridge, Mass.: MIT Press, 2004), pp. 5 - 25 Swarm Urbanism, By Kokkugia, Accessed from http://www.kokkugia.com/ Temporary Performance space for Sydney Festival, Accessed from http://www.evolo.us/architecture/ temporary-performance-space-for-the-sydney-festival-2012-iain-blampied-oliver-hessian/ Madren 5340, Thessaloniki Accessed from http://www.suckerpunchdaily.com/?s=thessaloniki
PROJECT PROPOSAL
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LIMITATION OF INTERIM OUTCOME There are a couple of issues of the interim outcome. The sitting of the model limited the visibility. It is better for the fluid surface to face the road. Secondly, the model should have more details as the current stack of layers is too simple. Therefore we further develop 2 versions basing on this.
version 5
In response to the Western Gateway project brief and the Interim study outcome, the design aims to create a sense of fluidity over the site. Our proposed gateway project will give a sense of excitement and visually interesting spatial urban experience as the current site condition consists of mainly straight roads and flat areas making it very monotonous for the traveller’s therefore this gateway can spice up their journey.
PROJECT| interpretation ////// Site analysis
ABOUT THE SITE The City of Wyndham is located on the western fringe of metropolitan Melbourne, midway between the Melbourne city and Geelong. The Princes Freeway is the major transport route and connection between both these important places, traversing the municipality from east to west. Journey to and from workplaces and leisure facilities from Melbourne city generate a high proportion of Wyndham’s traffic and most of these journey are made on the Princes Freeway.
It is observed that there are more than 55% of the population who work outside the City of Wyndham especially on the western part out of the municipality according to the census data. In fact, the bar graph shows that more than 60% of the population travel to work by means of private vehicles. These huge figure demonstrates how the vast majority of the people are transporting across the Western interchange of the Princess Freeway.
SITE A There is amazing exposure on the chosen site provided by Princes Freeway with south‐bound and north‐bound traffic along the Princes Freeway splitting to create a 90 metre wide road reserve. For the Getaway Project Site A has been chosen due to its strategic location and exposure from two main roads which can primarily be viewed by passer-by’s who are travelling at high speed and provide the first indication of arrival into metropolitan Melbourne.
PROJECT| Delivery ////// Further develop
version 6
Process from right to left: simplify the curve surface create contour lines for the surface generate diamond plates and orient on contour lines rotation of plates directed by surface curvature
DESCRIPTION Diamond plates represent fragments of the curve surface. It also reveals the idea of dynamic flow. Irregularity of this version is shown in various density and orientations of these diamond pieces. Contour lines underneath these plates will be extruded to form structural ribs that these fragments can sit on.
structural connection that inserts into the plate.
RELATION WITH VERSION 5 Base surface here is a simplified version from the previous. Version 5 acts as a structural foundation for the diamond pieces. In regard to the goal for further development, version 6 presents a more detailed design. LIMITATION Each diamond plates is estimated 20 x 20 x 2.7mm and the connection bit for plates to base geometries underneath is approximately 5 x 10 x 2.7mm. Due to the difficulties for fabricating such tiny pieces ( at least 100 of them) in a weeks time, this option has to be eliminated.
Diamond plate
PROJECT| Presentation ////// Finalized
SEAMLESS -- version 7
WHY THIS SHAPE The fluidity and dynamism of the geometry is retained for this version. In such orientation, people coming from both side of the site can view our installation. The purpose for varying the curvature is to pose some differences for the visual journey. According to McGraw-Hill Dictionary of Architecture & Construction, “The quality of being fluid, or capable of flowing; that quality of a body which renders it incapable of resisting tangential stresses.”
THE DESIGN INTENT There are enormous flow types in the natural world which are in the form of fluidity, similarly our site experiences air, field, water flows in or around it. The basic idea behind creating the model was to show the dynamics of flow and connect it to the heavy flow of traffic and passer-by’s to and fro the Wyndham city. Digital tools that have allowed us to build a gateway for the Western Gateway Design project with organic forms, instead of merely repeating order that characterizes the industrial architecture of the twentieth century .The concept of fluidity for the gateway project created extends from one end to another , with intersections in between making the design more DYNAMIC and flowing similarly to the fluidity in the flow in nature.
PLAN & ELEVATION distance between intersections (mm) 14500
22200
18500
material: matt galvanized metal sheets metal strips width: 600mm; thickness:5mm span:4m; spacing between strips: 200mm maximum height of installation:7m
SITE PLAN
27300
26000
14968 8800 13000 6600
PROJECT| Presentation ////// Fabrication
CONSTRUCTION PROCESS steel rings welded into column to hold metal plates
1:50 detail model shown on the right hand page demonstrates how plates connected on the column at the intersection. Photo shown below demonstrates how the plates will hold in place at the end. By connecting each of the plates to its neighbors can ensure a stable gesture.
assembling metal plates steel column
concrete pad footing
DETAIL OF MATERIAL JUNCTION
PROJECT| Presentation ////// Fabrication
Due to the use of soft material (polypropylene) for constructing the 1:70 model, we couldn’t prevent sagging and bending. Therefore it appears very different from the 1:50 detail model. Materiality is tested thoroughly in physical modeling. We choose the unexpected outcome as our finalized version. Thus 5mm galvanized steel panels for 1:1 installation to incorporate such effect. It makes the construction process easier as materials become lighter. Letting the steel plates bend naturally reduces additional structural support for keeping plates in shape.
PROJECT| Presentation ////// Perspective
The blurring effect that we use for photography is for capturing the vision that people might have while traveling in high speed. A glimpse will create such illusion. As our ultimate goal is to demonstrate fluidity and dynamism, this finalized version has almost been brought alive while experiencing it during rapid movement. The overlapping of the two layers create some interesting patterns and almost like a woven fabric that ‘flows’ with passersby.
SEAMLESS -- version 7
PROJECT| Presentation ////// Weathering
SEAMLESS -- version 7
The performance of our design under rain is significant. Photographs on the left emphasize the reflection on water ponds. Wetting the model makes it look lighter as it seems to be translucent because of the sparkling water beads hanging on the strips. It meets the criteria of producing different perspectives in order to spice up an ongoing interest for our audience.
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WHY ‘SEAMLESS’
SEAM LESS
PROJECT| Conclusion
The installation is Not a rigid object rather a piece of art which is flowing and continuous making it dynamic and interactive. As we all know Wyndham is the fastest growing municipality in Victoria. It represents the growth of the Wyndham city and how it is changing its image by improving and upgrading the Wyndham council as a whole. Moving towards a better future and better living making it a seamless, continuous motive for the Wyndham council. WHY CHOOSE OUR PROJECT?
To incorporate an ‘eye catching’ installation which is a requirement in the brief, we deconstruct the ordinary elements and geometries like circular, triangular, square which are used widely with Curvilinear geometry, seamless and smooth transitions to create the fluid shape, integrating the diverse forms which connect Wyndham council to the Melbourne city scape. Since Wyndham city is known for its sculptural and public art, our proposed gateway will become another turning point for the city’s achievement in art. It is a more contemporary version of art because of the use of digital tools and computational design in the project, which indicates the Wyndham community being technically advanced.
OBJECTIVES AND OUTCOME LEARNING POSAL //////////
FINAL
//////Personal background & Learning objective
Parametric design offered in this semester’s studio provide me with a great chance to trial some advanced techniques that I haven’t used before. As it involved such a great discipline, I would take such advantage to develop my specific areas of interest. Through the use of Grasshopper, I hope I could find some techniques that could be inherited in my future design.
PUSHING THE LIMITS OF WHAT IS POSSIBLE
The only experience that I have with computer modeling is Sketchup, CAD and Rhino. Studios in previous years occupied me with skills such as thinking and designing critically. The design is somehow constrained by the conventional routine process. My previous goal is rather being creative and rational, than being innovative and critical.
FINAL
//////Learning Progress
MATRIX & LEARNING GRASSHOPPER Learning associative technique and getting ourselves in practice prepare us with some basic knowledge for developing our own design. This stage is extremely flexible because there aren’t any constrains from the project brief. Purely searching potentials and probabilities let us see varies possible outcomes. In particular, visual distortion and swarm effect (in pg 23-26) that closely related to our design criteria is developed at this phase.
FINALIZED DESIGN Although the final outcome is beyond complexity and, Grasshopper definitions are very basic and simple, we found it suited the site context well(argued in pg46 & 65). Complexities emerges only when we start producing physical models. Fabrication has pushed the design forward as we started to consider material and junctions. The nature of material reveals construction difficulties and the uncertainties. The risk of parametric modeling exposed at this stage. Natural sagging and bending is not expected, however it actually makes the design more interesting and dynamic. Physical modeling help us develop a criteria for material selection for the real installation and it advanced our design intent -- producing a dynamic and fluid design. When photographing the model, I get to know how one can ‘sell’ her design in a better and convincing way. Having a clear idea of how our design will perform is helpful.
CASE FOR INNOVATION Fluidity and dynamism of the design is my interest(stated in interim conclusion). It not only exists in geometry but also it could be demonstrated by its visual effects. Precedences has directed me to start with an analogy -- flow. The process of exploration on different design versions is based on the criteria of creating a dynamic visual journey. Eventually, the case study of BANQ restaurant opens our way for the search of a rigid structure.
EXPLORING DESIGN POSSIBILITIES After reproducing the case study -- BANQ restaurant, our technique becomes more matured. Simply generating interesting geometries that do not have structural rigidity at the beginning(fabrication failure stated in pg31) drew us back on fabrication. Then I realize the importance of using structural intelligent strategy to generate an artistic design(pg 37). Interlocking method applied in the interim outcome provide us with an adequate structural foundation. Adopting this strategy for our final 2 versions and corporate it with the Western Gateway design brief, the design intent, shape, aesthetic details and orientation are finalized.
FINAL
////// Learning outcomes
“Offering new ways of controlling form, parametric design allows architecture to react to its context, the environment and rules and regulations, enabling a completely digital workflow from design to manufacturing.” -- Extract from http://openbuildings.com
Parametric processes are very interesting because of the level of complexity they can allow us to reach. It replaces producing and translating design concept manually and therefore being efficient and precise while generating form and detailing the design. I found it easy to learn basic design techniques with Grasshopper however hard to mastering the software. We spent most of the time researching relevant cases of our interest and try to imitate their textual and visual effects. The finalized version is the only one that we could balance its aesthetic and structure, producing a simple definition that could represent our design intent and fabricating it correctly and successfully. The course encourages me to earn knowledge from not only architecture, urban and landscape design, but also fashion, textile as well as industrial design. In regard of the project brief, I prefer describing the design process as ‘sculpting architecture’ and ‘building a dialogue between the design and the audience’ rather than ‘building making’. Communicating visually appears to be an important aspect of this project. Eventually, producing convincing and stylish photographs is almost as important as making an imprinting concept. Overall, as this course enables us to experience such a rich, new and completed design process, the learning has been exciting and encouraging.
////// Future work
Today, all industries and creative sectors changed drastically due to a larger set of new materials, tools, uses, customers’ demands, production techniques, mass consumption, mass customization, computational design, perception, better social awareness, and so forth. Parametric design has enlarged our skills and design possibilities, nourishing contemporary standards and strive towards future innovations. It is extremely valuable for me to design parametrically in future studios or works. Not only as a confront to the current design trend but also an intent to contribute to the evolutionary change and broaden the architectural discipline. Cecil Balmond is influential to my area of interest -- dynamism and new aesthetic. It is stated by Nicolai Ouroussoff in New York Times that “Pushing the limits of what is possible, [Cecil Balmond’s] ‘....genius has been crucial to the emergence of a new aesthetic....” Also, his interest in interrogating and applying advanced geometric thinking in how space can be organized and experienced is informative and triggering. In my future work, I would like to keep these interest and develop a particular style to represent my own design. Studies in this semester has proved that achieving an equilibrium between a rational and innovative parametric design is very challenging. As such irregular and extremely complex parametric design might not be able to convince the majority at the moment. Thus strengthening my ability to convince the audience through communicating visually and vocally can help me take a step forward. It could be achieve by thinking critically and mastering some particular design softwares.
Reference: http://balmondstudio.com/