ADS Final Journal by Samantha Loo

JOURNAL architecture studio air

Xi Ting Samantha Loo 347119

cONTeNTS PAGe A Case For Innovation - Architecture As A Discourse - Unique Innovations - Contemporary Scripting - Other Group Precedence - Gateway Criteria Matrix Cut/ Fabricate - Personal Matrixes - Rest of Group Matrix - Explaniation - Matrix conlusion - Case Study Personal - Case Study Group Competitive Advantage

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Wyndham City Gateway Project -Background Information -The Site -Design Idea (Cultural Unity) -Design Process -Grasshopper Definition (Model) -Grasshopper Definition (Fabrication) -Materiality -Construction Details -Model Images -Perspective View on Site

Reflection After Feedback -Response to Feedback -Ammended Design Idea

Learning Objectives and Outcomes -Personal Background and Learning Objectives -Learning Progress -Learning Outcomes -Future Work

Bibliography

Part 1 Gateway Project Expression of interest

AS A diScOURSe 5 ARchiTecTURe Studley Park Boathouse

For Architecture studio water, we were given an assignment where we were each assigned a specific and revolutionary architect. We were then supposed to study their work and analyze their architectural style and consequentially design a boathouse in the style of that particular architect. I ended up analyzing the work of Mario Botta. Botta was part of a group of influencial Italian speaking swiss architects from Ticino who aided the Italian Neo-Rationalism movement in the 1960s. Botta started developing his own personal style where he uses bold shapes and forms, slits for circulation and symmetry.1The idea behind the boathouse design was to design a space that connected the water to the land. I did so by ensuring that the upper floors hung over the river and by bringing the river into the boathouse by incorporating the pier into the design. eOi week 1

Personally, I have been to one of Botta’s building, namely the San Francisco Museum of Art. The first thing that I noticed about the building was its magnitude and how solid it seemed to be. The exterior of the building was made out of bricks which made the building feel large. It contrasted well with the entrance which was made out of glass. For this project, I used Botta’s ideas and design ideas as a starting point. One problem that arose was finding a balance between Botta’s style and my own. I ended up learning from Botta by building on his ideas and consequently developing my own philosophy for the project.

Personal Project

“architecture is a discipline that gives an order to the space in our life, therefore it can give a structure to the organisation of space” - Mario Botta

I wanted the boathouse to make an impression on people the same way that Botta’s building made me feel. I decided on insitu concrete for the facade as I wanted the building to feel heavy and large. I also used a skylight and small circular windows to illuminate the building and also the ‘break’ the solidity of the building and make it seem lighter. I found myself constantly trying to find a balance between aesthetic and functionality as both are very important when trying to create a great building.

Link to the Gateway Project For the Gateway project, I would build on existing forms and structures and improve on them. I would also ensure that the installation would feel massive and solid. The installation would also be grounded in local culture and it would allow people passing through the installation to experience the cultural diversity of Wyndham city.

In fact, throughout history new forms have emerged due to new constrains and limitations. For instance, skyscrapers were brought about due to the lack of space in cities. For this project, I would attempt to overcome limitations and restrictions by submitting a project that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. 1

William J. R. Curtis, Modern Architecture since 1900, 3rd edn (London: Phaidon Press Limited, 1996), p. 58.

as a discourse 7 architecture Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health

The Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health was designed I find the building aesthetically interesting because by Frank Gehry in order to spread public awareness I like the fluidity of the design and the interesting about Alzheimer’s. cutouts for windows. However, the building has also been deemed an eyesore by some. Therefore, how Like most of Gehry’s buildings, the centre appears ‘artistic’ a building is very subjective as beauty lies almost unruly, unfinished and chaotic.2 In this in the eye of the beholder. During an interview with case, the trapezoid shaped window was encased the Las Vegas Sun, when asked about his design, in the steel grey framework so it could work with Gehry said ‘who knows what I was thinking? I just the façade. The external cladding is covered with a wanted it provocative.’ 4 He succeeded in that reflective material, which gives the impression that aspect because Gehry’s buildings tend to invoke strong emotions from people and that was what I the building is moving. believe made him famous. Gehry usually incorporates very mundane features of the building’s landscape into the design.3 In this case, Gehry uses the sun which is almost ever present in Vegas to create the movement in his design and bring in natural sunlight into the building.

eoi week 1

Architect: Frank Gehry Location: Las Vegas

The idea behind Gehry’s buildings are generally direct and metaphoric. 5 In this case, Gehry agreed to design this building after much urging from Lou Ruvo because he had personal interest in the research of Huntington’s disease after his good friend’s wife and sisters - in - law succumbed to it. 6 The building demonstrates technological advances and in its own way the culture of today’s society. For instance, the building itself is a contradiction. Although building was specifically designed for the Vegas landscape, the team responsible for the building was not all on site for the construction. In fact, different pieces that made up the façade of the building had GPS chips embedded in it so that the building’s surveyors could ensure the façade was pieced together accurately. Furthermore, the project involved structural engineers globally, namely from Poland, India and Germany.7

The cultural context being global where it is possible in today’s society with global teams where people need not be physically present to complete a project. Furthermore, Lou Ruvo was quoted saying that the architecture of the building was used as a marketing tool to impress upon people that the centre was taking Alzeheimer research seriously.8 Link to the Gateway project The design for the installation has to firstly be effective. One must always be open to new technological advances to achieve the intended design. Secondly, a design with a strong idea and or in this case a metaphoric story is important as it, in a way, gives the project a rational for its existence. Furthermore, in today’s context, architecture can be used as a marketing strategy, the same way that the Gateway project will be, to show that the residents there are also forward looking and open minded and that they are serious about trying to improve the image of the city.

Chistopher Hawthorne, ‘Frank Gehry’s Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health in Las Vegas’, Los Angeles Times, (2010).

Curtis, p. 663.

Tom Gorman, ‘Ruvo Center Architect’s Form Helps Direct Focus on a Cure’, Las Vegas Sun, (2010).

Hawthorne.

Gorman.

Joseph Giovannini, ‘Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health - Las Vegas Gehry Partners’, Architect, (2011) <http://mydigimag.rrd.com/

publication/?i=66206> [accessed April 2012] pp. 84-94).

9 architecture as a discourse Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower

The cocoon tower designed by Tange Architects and was the winning design for an educational building. In a way, the cocoon is a metaphor for education. For instance, the cocoon is the incubation period where the lava turns into a butterfly. Similarly, the tower serves as a location where the student ‘lava’ is being educated ‘incubated’ to be useful members of society ‘butterfly’. The structure of the cocoon tower is unique where the tower appears to be ‘wrapped’ with a web of white ‘fabric’ like a cocoon. The white structure in a way acts as a shade and the narrow portion on the top acts provides unobstructed views of Shinjuku. The building also blends nicely in the landscape and although there are 50 levels, it is not the tallest tower in the city. 9 The cocoon tower tried to bring in nature into the design. This is because the city did not have any space for greenery and they wanted the students to experience nature. Therefore, they had to bring ‘nature’ into the building. They did so by incorporating student lounges in between classrooms. These lounges were actually three story atriums with panoramic views of the city. The idea of the interaction between nature and the built environment has been increasingly common in 21st century architectural design especially with the increase in awareness about the environment and the need for green spaces.

eoi week 1

The cocoon tower tried to bring in nature into the design. This is because the city did not have any space for greenery and they wanted the students to experience nature. Therefore, they had to bring ‘nature’ into the building. They did so by incorporating student lounges in between classrooms. These lounges were actually three story atriums with panoramic views of the city. The idea of the interaction between nature and the built environment has been increasingly common in 21st century architectural design especially with the increase in awareness about the environment and the need for green spaces.

Architect: Tange Architects Location: Shinjuku, Tokyo

Personally, I have been to the tower before and my first impression of it was that it seemed to standout from the surrounding building. Although the height of the building was a huge factor, the main reason was that it seemed the lightest around. It was because of the contrast between the ‘wrapped’ facade and the amount of glass used.

Link to the Gateway Project As the design is meant to catch the attention and make an impact on the people passing through it, it should have interesting contrasting textures.10 Although earthquake technology is not very applicable in Melbourne the tower is a good example of how local environmental constrains does not This tower was ground breaking in the aspect of restrict but rather forces one to think outside the reducing seismic activity. This building is the first circular tower in Tokyo that is earthquake resistant. box for newer and more innovative ideas. This example in technological advancement is mostly applicable in countries where earthquakes are common. In that aspect, the building demonstrates how local environmental constrains does not restrict but rather forces the architect to think outside the box and come out with new and interesting forms. 9 Chistopher Hawthorne, ‘Frank Gehry’s Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health in Las Vegas’, Los Angeles Times, 10 Paul Noritaka Tange and Minami Masato, ‘Mode Gakeun Cocoon Tower’, Council on Tall Buildings and Habitat, (2009).

(2010).

11unique innovations presented by

contemporary computational design techniques Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Museum

One project that utilizes comtemporary computational design techniques is the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Museum. The Architect for the project is Trahan Architects. However, the modeling and geometry of the stadium was done by Method Design. The Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Museum is located at Natchitoches in Louisiana. Although the project was to be completed in 2011, it is still under construction.11 Method Design, served as a geometry and detailing consultant for the project. As method design are the consultants to Advanced Cast Stone, a pre-cast panel fabricator. Hence they worked with the specialty steel consultant to design a suitable structural platform to service a support system for the stone panels.

eoi week 2

Architect: Trahan Architects Geometry and Detailing Consultant: Method Design Location: Natchitoches, Louisiana

According to Stasiuk from Method Design, the In order to be able to complete an entire model for design was mostly created using grasshopper to a building and have it ready for fabrication requires extract information about the orientation and to a lot of computer skills. The fact is that there is instantiate elements of the design that cannot be always a trade off between what the designer really fully generated by algorithm alone. They also used wants and the limitations of the software. This is other software like Karamba and Geometry Gym because most of the computer aided design reand together with grasshopper, they operated it search that has been taking place over the past 50 in parallel with Robot structural analysis software years have generally been targeted in making the to do detailing for the steel. This enabled them to job easier for the human designers and not really transfer information seamlessly across the different focused on attempting to create new forms.15 All of softwares. The result is a fully detailed model of the the computer software available today has its limistructural member, support and connection of that tations. Hence, one way of achieving one’s design was ready for fabrication and installation of steel goals is to use a wide range of software, as seen by the system done by Method Design. supports and cast stone connections.13 The Sports hall of Fame, according to Kolarevic’s Link to Gateway project definition is the eventual target that one should For the gateway project, the aim is to have all the strive to achieve in architecture. This is because necessary information on the structure to be collatsteel structural system is an example on how a sys- ed and represented on the computer and be ready tem can be done and compiled wholly on the com- for fabrication using grasshopper. This project is puter and when completed is also ready for fabrica- a good example on how it is done in the industry tion. This is because the 4D model contains all the today. qualitative and quantitative information that allowed the construction of a single model that contains all the relevant and vital information that is needed to produce a building.14

11 Trahan Architects, ‘Lousiana Sports Hall of Fame Museum’, (2012), p. Project Description on the Lousiana Sports Hall of Fame Museum. 12 Trahan Architects, ‘Lousiana Sports Hall of Fame Museum’, (2012), p. Project Description on the Lousiana Sports Hall of Fame Museum. 13 Method Design, ‘Louisana State Sports Hall of Fame + Regional History Museum’, (2012), p. Geometry and Detailing Consultant Portfo-

lio for the LSH project.

14 Branko Kolarevic, Architecture in the Digital Age - Design and Manufacturing, 15 Yehuda E. Kalay, Architecture’s New Media: Principles, Theories, and Methods

(Taylor & Francis, 2003), p. 8. of Computer-Aided Design, (MIT Press, 2004), p. 4.

13unique innovations presented by

contemporary computational design techniques

MSWCT Snowflake Tower

The Snowflake Tower is meant to feature new thinking in architecture. The building was originally developed as a prototype that was meant to translate brand values into memorable architecture. It is also the first of many towers that would be built around the world in the new style.16

eoi week 2

Architect: LAVA Location: Abu Dhabi UAE

The design was based on attempting to fulfill the requirements of the brief, which was the need for optimal lighting, air distribution, panoramic views minimal structure, good user comfort and integrating the tower with the water. The form that resulted was one that was sleek, aerodynamic and took geometries from nature (hence the name snow flake tower) The tower also relates to nature with technology that responds to the environment. There are intelligent systems and skins installed in the building that reacts to external influences like the air pressure, temperature, humidity, solar radiation and even pollution.17 The geometric and streamlined shaped of the tower was generated and formed in grasshopper and rhino especially to control the form, occupancy and building structure. Like the Sports Museum, the entire structure was generated on the computer and was then broken down and exported for fabrication. Link to the Gateway Project This building’s geometric and streamlined shape shows speed which is what I want the installation to represent due to it being installed along the highway. Also like the sports museum, the entire design process was done on a computer and our main objective would be to prepare the design to be exported for fabrication like the sports museum.

LAVA (Laboratory for Visionary Architecture), ‘Mswct Snowflake Tower’, (2008), p. Project Description on MSWCT Snowflake Tower.

ntext for it later’. We can incorporate data that of multidisciplinary strategist. The new architect is still ultimately responsible for design intent and needs to be able to look at the big urces, including aesthetics and the picture to decide which factors to parameterise, to give limits to the political and historical dimensions parameters, assign a weight to each factor and determine the order and ve data is the new meaning. Rather than method of the information modelling process: in summary to strategise he mere reduction of the qualitative into which factors and methods will be used, how they will be applied or e, this approach actually creates the the optimistic potential of emergence: the generated, and to judge what they contribute. But, just as in the ‘new, softer science’, algorithms assume the burden of rigorous quantitative ects of complexity and multiplicity may methodology and the mind is left ‘free to move around the data in the sult in the production of new qualities, more types of 11 information, andthis impliesReconceptualised most creative way’. allow new relationships between options, consider Technically a broader use ofRole 10 generally be more creative with use stages them. In Such approach implies nd culture to emerge. creative scripting inhow the we initial ofthe design, oneanthat is capable of that the architect’s role should be

15contemporary scripting/programming cultures with critique

Age we study can ‘view data Parametric cellPetabyte facade formathematically the slabfirst and

reconceptualised from that of romantic genius or technological guru to establish a context for it later’.9 We can incorporate data that of multidisciplinary strategist. The new architect is still ultimately responsible for design intent and needs to be able to look at the big from many sources, including aesthetics and the OMA picture Researchtoand Innovation decide which factors to parameterise, to give limits to the sociocultural, political and historical dimensions Parametrics Cell, Facade Study for parameters, assign a weight to each factor and determine the order and because massive data is the new meaning. Rather than the Slab, 2008 method of the information modelling process: in summary to strategise necessitating the mere reduction of the qualitative into A number of data-driven iterations of whichwere factors and methods will be used, how they will be applied or the quantitative, this approach actually creates the the facade generated using different internal and generated, andexternal to judge what they contribute. But, just as in the ‘new, conditions for the optimistic potential of emergence: the source material, varyingassume the burden of rigorous quantitative softer science’, algorithms cumulative effects of complexity and multiplicity may sociocultural degrees (low to high) of mutation, options, consider more types of information, and Reconceptualised Role methodology and the mind is left ‘free to move around the data in the themselves result in the production of new qualities, several directional types of 11 mutation generally bebetween more creative with how we use them. In the Such an approach implies thatuse theofarchitect’s role should be most creative way’. which in turn allow new relationships Technically this implies a broader (one, two or three dimensions) and a mathematically first reconceptualised from that ofisromantic or technological guru architecture and culture toPetabyte emerge.10Age we can ‘view data creative scripting in and the stages of design, one that capablegenius of range of functional, structural andinitial 9 material These data establish a context for it later’. that of multidisciplinary strategist. The new architect is still ultima We parameters. can incorporate iterations, besides the responsible for design intent and needs to be able to look at the big from many sources, including aesthetics andarticulating the external contextual urban patterns, picture to decide which factors to parameterise, to give limits to the sociocultural, political and historical dimensions also indicated the two internal public OMA Research and Innovation parameters, assign a weight eachStudy factor because massive data is the floors new meaning. Rather than Parametrics Cell, to Facade forand determine the order through a different Slab, 2008 modelling process: in summary to strate method of the the information necessitating the mere reduction of theprocess qualitative into deformation (a script that A number of data-driven iterations of randomly ‘shook’ the grid methods will be used, how they will be applied o the quantitative, this approach actually creates thepattern in which factors and the facade were generated using these two horizontal zones) and to judge whatand they contribute. But, just as in the ‘ne conditions for the optimistic potential of emergence: the generated, anddifferent internal external utilised special transformation scripts softer science’,sociocultural algorithms assume thevarying burden of rigorous quantitat cumulative effects of complexity and multiplicity may source material, to increase the level of articulation: degrees (low to high) of mutation, themselves result in the production of new qualities, extra mutation (different thicknesses)methodology and the mind is left ‘free to move around the data in t several11directional types of mutation options, consider more types of information, and at sky lobbybetween zones, enlarged most creative way’. whichReconceptualised in turn allow newRole relationships Technically this implies a broader use of (one, two or three dimensions) and a 18 lobbies and generally be more creative with how we use them. In the Such anand approach that 10 the architect’s role shouldcreative be openings at the radial architecture cultureimplies to emerge. scripting initial structural stages of design, one that is capable rangeinofthe functional, and thickness deformation around the Petabyte Age we can ‘view data mathematically first and reconceptualised from that of romantic genius or technological guru tomaterial parameters. These sky lobby. establish a context for it later’.9 We can incorporate data that of multidisciplinarylower strategist. The new architect is still ultimatelyiterations, besides articulating the responsible for design intent and needs to be able to look at the big external contextual urban patterns, from many sources, including aesthetics and the also indicated the two internal public OMA Research and Innovation picture to decide which factors to parameterise, to give limits to the floors through a different sociocultural, political and historical dimensions Parametrics Cell, Facade Study parameters, assign a weight to each factor and determine the order anddeformation process (a script that the Slab, 2008 because massive data is the new meaning. Rather than method of the information modelling process: in summary to strategiserandomly ‘shook’ the grid pattern in necessitating the mere reduction of the qualitative into A number of data-driven iteratio which factors and methods will be used, how they will be applied or these two horizontal zones) and the facade were generated usin the quantitative, this approach actually creates the utilised special transformation scripts different internal and external conditions for the optimistic potential of emergence: the generated, and to judge what they contribute. But, just as in the ‘new, to increase the level of articulation: sociocultural source material, va softer science’, algorithms assume the burden of rigorous quantitative extra mutation (different thicknesses) cumulative effects of complexity and multiplicity may degrees (low to high) of mutatio several directional types of muta methodology and the mind is left ‘free to move around the data in the at sky lobby zones, enlarged themselves result in the production of new qualities, openings at the lobbies and radial (one, two or three dimensions) a most creative way’.11 Technically this implies a broader use of which in turn allow new relationships between thickness deformation around the range of functional, structural an architecture and culture to emerge.10 creative scripting in the initial stages of design, one that is capable of lower sky lobby. material parameters. These

There are large amounts of data available today and when used with mathematics it supersedes every other tool.

Traditional scientific methodology is lacking when the data gets too big or complicated to document. Therefore since the tools are already available, today, one can calculate a lot of data and with it produce very concrete results in fields such as science and technology. This could be the zeitgeist of this age. Therefore it is logical that one should incorporate modern technologies into building design.

For this study done in 2008, OMA research team wanted to obtain data on the social and cultural context of the site and using the data to articulate the building’s internal public zones and external urban pattern.In order to translate the data into analog format, they ran the slab through a series of steps. OMA Research and Innovation Parametrics Cell, Facade Study for the Slab, 2008 A number of data-driven iterations of the facade were generated using different internal and external sociocultural source material, varying degrees (low to high) of mutation, several directional types of mutation (one, two or three dimensions) and a range of functional, structural and material parameters. These iterations, besides articulating the external contextual urban patterns, also indicated the two internal public floors through a different deformation process (a script that randomly ‘shook’ the grid pattern in these two horizontal zones) and utilised special transformation scripts to increase the level of articulation: extra mutation (different thicknesses) at sky lobby zones, enlarged openings at the lobbies and radial thickness deformation around the lower sky lobby.

iterations, besides articulating th external contextual urban patter also indicated the two internal p floors through a different deformation process (a script tha randomly ‘shook’ the grid patter these two horizontal zones) and utilised special transformation sc to increase the level of articulati extra mutation (different thickne at sky lobby zones, enlarged openings at the lobbies and rad thickness deformation around th lower sky lobby.

Firstly, they wanted to obtain data of the existing buildings. Hence they conceptually ‘flipped’ the slab on top of the buildings.

This calculated the height and location of the building. The data was then recorded and put onto an excel spreadsheet where each number corresponded with a feature of the building on the site. 25

By using this process there were able to fabricate different patterns by altering and using special transformation scripts in order to increase the articulation level. This process allowed for the input of cultural data of the site which helps develop the relationship between culture and architecture. 25

eoi week 3

OMA Research Team Location: N/A

Link to the Gateway Project I really liked the potential behind this concept as it can be further expanded where the social, cultural and historical data can also be used to incorporate voronoi patterning or even graphs into the project. This approach is applicable to the gateway project as it is an interesting method of incorporating the cultural aspect of Wyndham City into the design. However, I found it difficult to connect the idea behind the facade to the target audiences. The idea of using computer modeling is new and it is not easy to decipher the idea behind a project simply by looking at it. For instance, when I showed by mother my grasshopper matrix, she commented that it was nothing more than a bunch of dots. Therefore, unless the entire city is behind the project, no one but the architect will know that actual meaning behind the facade. Hence, since our group will be using this project as the main precedence, the biggest challenge that we would face is making the facade of the structure relatable and easily understood by the general public.

ovation Parametrics Cell, Facade Study for the Slab, 2008 trategy experimented with the soft data of sociocultural material through scripts that 18 Cynthia internal publicOttchen, zones‘The and registered the site’s and external while Future of Information Modelling the End ofurban Theory pattern Less Is Limited, More Is Different’, Architectural Design, 79 (2009). unctional, structural and material parameters. The series of diagrams shows how the

17contemporary scripting/programming cultures

Week 3 Burry Reading Review

Scripting In Grasshopper

eoi week 3

Scripting has been called the driving force for architecture in the 21st century. This is because scripting allows the designer to overcome limitations with software currently available.

According to Burry, there are three main scripting cultures, namely, productivity, experimentation by scripting a path to the ‘answer’ and scripting as a voyage of discovery.19

The current model has the designer trusting software engineers to produce the application needed for architectural models. However, with scripting, which is a computer program overlay, now the designer can become the new toolmaker. Hence, scripting allows the designer to unleash their creative potential and not be restrained and conform to current norms.

Personally, I mostly agree with the author. Scripting is interesting and revolutionary in the aspect that it allows designers to ‘own’ their work and not be constrained by the limitations of the software they are using. However, scripting is also difficult to grasp and understand. In a way, it is like learning a whole new language.

Learning it and experimenting with it is time consuming and one would need to be very motivated However, they are still problems with scripting. and driven for them to see it through. Therefore, Firstly, it is still in in its experimental stages and it might seem easier to simply ‘borrow’ another are not in most university curriculums. Secondly, although the programs available to make scripting person’s script and work with it. It would then undermine the whole reason for scripting in the first easier, the end result is not very original. Lastly, trying to learn how to script is difficult and people place as the designer would still find themselves just starting would have the tendency to appropriate constrained. other’s scripts.

Mark Burry, Scripting Cultures: Architectural Design and Programming, (Wiley & Sons, 2011).

19other cases for innovation Other Group Precedence

Fun Cloud Pavillion

Architect: ECOLogicStudio Location: London

This pavillion is a constructed entirely by a computational architectural machine. It can not only adapt the pavillion to contextual and future architectural changes but also control and dim or brighten the artificial lighting that can be controlled via a computer. For the gateway project, one should always utilize new technology as it is a means of creating interesting and innovative designs. Also, lighting would be used to create an experience that represents the culture of Wyndham City. Also, it creates a pocket of space where the driver is completely engrossed in the experience.

BIFID

Architect: Alisa Andrasek (Biothing) Location: New York

BIFID is an interactive ceiling prototype that was done for the New York New Museum in 2005. The design was programmed by ‘plusing lighting patterns” based on the same mathematics wave interference that is applied to the geometry of the ceiling. This approach can be applied to the Gateway project as it allows us to “ produce infinite number of of variation without increasing the cost of production” through unfolding fabrication drawings.

group eoi

ZA11 Wooden Pavillion

Architect: D Stefanescu, P, Berdarf and B. Hambasan Location: Cluj, Romania

The Wooden Pavillion was an ambitious student based project which aimed to attract passers-by to the ZA11 Speaking Architecture Program in Romania. The team had the challenge of intergrating the pavillion into the historical setting of the program. The Idea was concieved during a parametric design workshop that was specifically geared towards production. The team also had to work with material constrains and yet were still able to use the structure to showcase the design that was done using digital tools. This is applicable to the gateway project because the installation should be able to fit into Wyndham City’s cultural background and provide the people using it a meaningful cultural experience.

Gateway Criteria

According to the brief by Wyndham city, the installation has to be ‘exciting, eye-catching’ and would ‘inspire and enrich’ the municipility. Architecture should firstly be forward looking. This is because architecture is about creating a suitable space for people to live, work and interact in. Architecture is a also about overcoming limitations and restrictions to achieve a new and exciting form. For instance in Tokyo, circular towers are not commonplace because of earthquakes. The Mode Gakuen Tower is a good example of a design trying to overcome obsticles, to strive for a new form, making it the first circular tower ever built in Tokyo. Similarly for the Gateway project, we would try to stretch and overcome our limitations. For the gateway project, it is our intent to use the latest in design technology and altering the form in order to overcome project limitations. The installation should also have a massive impact and presence in Wyndham city and create an unforgettable experience about the city’s culture.

21cut definition Individual Matrix

set 1 2

set 2

set 3

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set 6

matrix: cut

set 6

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23cUT defiNiTiON individual Matrix

set 10

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MATRiX: cUT

Rest of the Group Matrix: Done by Jasmine

set 13

25cut definition Matrix Definition Index Set 1 Set 5 1) Arbitrary Points Maths Function, Component 1) Curve Intersection, Image Sampler, Rectangle 2) Arbitrary Point, Multiple Maths Function Component2) Curve Intersection, Image Sampler, Rectangle Rotation 3) Arbitrary Point, Image Sampler, Component 3) Curve Intersection, Image Sampler Rectangle (Varia4) Arbitrary Point, Attractor Point, Component tion) 5) Arbitrary Point, Curve Attractor, Component 4) Curve Intersection, Maths Function, Rectangle 5) Curve Intersection, Components Set 2 1) Arbitrary Point, Attractor Point Set 6 2) Arbitrary Point, Attractor Point Rotation 1) Arbitrary Points, Image Sampler, Extrusion 3) Arbitrary Point, Curve Attractor 2) Arbitrary Points, Maths Function, Extrusion 4) Arbitrary Point, Image Sampler, Rotation 3) Arbitrary Points, Multiple Maths Function, Extrusion 5) Arbitrary Point, Rotation 4) Arbitrary Points, Extrusion

Set 3 1) Arbitrary Point, Attractor Point, Rectangle Rotation 2) Arbitrary Point, Curve Attractor, Rectangle 3) Arbitrary Points, Image Sampler, Rectangle 4) Arbitrary Points, Image Sampler, Rectangle Rotation 5) Arbitrary Points, Rectangle Rotation Set 4 1) Curve Intersection, Image Sampler 2) Curve Intersection, Attractor Points, Rotation 3) Curve Intersection, Maths Function 4) Curve Intersection, Maths Function, Rotation 5) Curve Intersection, Remapping Data 6) Curve Intersection, Rotation 7) Curve Intersection, Text Sampler 8) Curve Intersection, Attractor Points 9) Curve Intersection, Curve Attractor 10) Curve Intersection, Image Sampler, Rotation

matrix: cut

Set 7 1) Arbitrary Points, Image Sampler, Rectangle Extrusion 2) Arbitrary Points, Rectangle Extrusion 3) Arbitrary Points, Multiple Maths Function, Extrusion Set 8 1) Boolean Pattern, Maths Function, Extrusion 2) Boolean Pattern, Multiple Maths Function, Extrusion 3) Boolean Pattern, Multiple Maths Function, Rectangle Extrusion Set 9 1) Using Surface Normals, Attractor Points, Rotation 2) Using Surface Normals, Attractor Points, Extrusion 3) Using Surface Normals, Attractor Points, Rectangle Output 4) Using Surface Normals, Image Sampler

Set 10 1) Boolean Pattern, Image Sampler 2) Boolean Pattern, Image Sampler Rotation 3) Boolean Pattern, Maths Function 4) Boolean Pattern, Maths Function, Rotation 5) Boolean Pattern, Using sets 6) Boolean Pattern, Using Sets Rotation 7) Boolean Pattern, Stream Text 8) Boolean Pattern, Stream Text Rotation Set 11 1) Boolean Pattern Image Sampler, Rectangle 2) Boolean Pattern, Image Sampler, Rectangle Rotation 3) Boolean Pattern, Math Function Rectangle 4) Boolean Pattern, Maths Function, Rectangle Rotation 5) Boolean Pattern, Using Sets, Rectangle 6) Boolean Pattern, Using Sets, Rectangle Rotation 7) Boolean Pattern, Stream Text, Rectangle 8) Boolean Pattern, Stream Text, Rectangle Rotation Set 12 1) Explicit Grid (Normal Grid), Attractor Points 2) Explicit Grid (Hexagonal Grid), Attractor Points 3) Explicit Grid (Normal Grid), Image Sampler, Shader 4) Explicit Grid (Hexagonal Grid), Image Sampler, Shader 5) Explicit Grid (Normal Grid), Maths Function 6) Explicit Grid (Hexagonal Grid), Maths Function 7) Explicit Grid (Normal Grid), Rotation 8) Explicit Grid (Hexagonal Grid), Rotation

Rest of Group Matrixes (jasmine) Set 13 1) Pattern Overlap, Maths Function, Extrusion 2) Pattern Overlap, Maths Function, Rotation 3) Pattern Overlap, Multiple Maths Function, Extrusion 4) Pattern Overlap, Using Sets, Rotation 5) Pattern and Overlap, using sets, extrusion 6) Pattern Overlap, Attractor Points, Shader

27cut definition Matrix Definition

Pattern Overlap, Maths Function, Extrusion

We decided on using this definition as a potiential starting point because of the different layers. Having a different layers for the facade of the installation would create interesting shadows that is formed when light enters the facade at different angles.

Pattern Overlap, Maths Function, Rotation

We liked this definition mainly because of the layers and also because of the slight curve on the x axis caused by the sine function. We found the layering was interesting as it gives the impression of being fluid and like the snowflake tower, gives the impression of speed and movement. This could be the form for the installation.

matrix: cut

Explicit Grid, Attractor Points

We decided on this as the definiton looks fluid and as it were showing movement. The facade is important for exploring the use of lighting and shadows. Positioning it on the installation would create interesting shadows which would result in interesting shadows that the motorist would experience

Explicit Grid, Attractor Points

We decided on this as the definiton because we were considering using an image sampler to potientially help with the facade design. This is becase an image sampler can shape a chosen image significant to the city. For instance, the image in the facade is that of a koala bear. This is a way of showcasing the Werribee open zoo in Wyndham city.

29cut definition Approach

When I was attempting the matrixes. I was not confident at using grasshopper and I definitely did not have any insight into the outcome. According to Kalay, it is important that designers learn how to effectively communicate with the computers in order to achieve a good design outcome.20 It was important to do the matrixes as it not only allowed us to explore the different options that we had by trying out different permutations and combinations but also familiarize ourselves with grasshopper. Familiarizing ourselves with the software also helps us with coming out with a suitable design solution because we know the benefits and limitations of the software.21 According to Burry, our group’s scripting culture is that of a ‘voyage of discovery’.22 This is because it opens up a whole new way to explore design. While I was experimenting with different definitions, I realised that in some instances, different combinations can actually generate the same result. For example, we realized that using a curve attractor and an image sampler as an associative technique can both generate circles of different dimentions. Other important factors that I took away from doing the matrices is that I can control the output of the matrices. For example, by manipulating the output, I can choose the definition to be that of rectangles instead of circles or even have it rotated or extruded. Upon completion of the matrices, as a group, we decided that we prefered the outputs with interesting geometrical shapes. Whilst attempting to visualize it on the site, we realized we needed to have a facade that can generate interesting shadows in the sunlight. Furthermore, layering the facade not only creates more exciting shadows but also represents the diversity of Wyndam city. Also in order to create different types of shadows, it was important that we experimented and utilized a vast array of materials to determine the material most suitable for the project.

Yehuda E. Kalay, Architecture’s New Media: Principles, Theories, and Methods of Computer-Aided Design (MIT Press, 2004). 4.

Yehuda E. Kalay, Architecture’s New Media: Principles, Theories, and Methods of Computer-Aided Design (MIT Press, 2004). 11.

Mark Burry, Scripting Cultures: Architectural Design and Programming (Wiley & Sons, 2011). 32.

matrix: cut

reverse engineering facade30 Dior in Ginza, Tokyo

Defintions Used: perforation / image mapping / layering The Design intend behind the Dior Building in Ginza is to imprint the trademark Dior handbag skin onto the building. As a result, the Dior building has a double layered facade. Perforations are made onto the outer alumninum facade whilst the holes made in the inner layer are actually printed on. This method plays with perseption by making the depth between the two facades appear depper than it actually is. However, this phenomenon can only be seen if the person is standing directly infront of the building. Personally, I chose to do this building over the other alternatives because it is the only building on the list that I have actually been to. However, although I must have walked past it dozens of times, I never actually realised that there were preforations in the building, let alone the ability of the facade play with depth perception.

I believe that the function of the design is to mark its spot on the street. Ginza is one of the most conjested and upscale shopping districts in Tokyo and numerous famous fashion houses line the street. Furthermore, the Japanese in general are very particular about their image and most of them do carry very expensive designer handbags.23 Hence, I believe that they chose the facade not only based solely on the aesthetic nature but rather that the play on perception and lighting would illuminate the building from far and have it stand out from far. Furthermore, the facade looks expensive and sophisticated. This image could potientially attract customers and draw them away from other fashion houses 23

The statements on culture are not strictly factual but mostly based on my personal observations about Tokyo. I have spent the last two summers there since my family is currently based there.

matrix: cut/fabricate

reverse engineering facade Dior in Ginza, Tokyo

Actual Ginza Dior Facade as seen from across the road

Grasshopper Definition (As seen from the back)

Grasshopper Definition (As seen from the front)

Grasshopper Definition (Perspective 1 Double Layered Facade) Grasshopper Definition (Perspective 2 Double Layered Facade)

matrix: cut/fabricate

Fabrication

As a group, we decided not to fabricate the Ginza Facade. However, we were still interesting in finding out the effect of light and materials on creating shadows so I made boxes out of card, Results: 1) By shinnning light through the white card box with holes in the surface, like the ginza like the ginza building, it is well lighted and can be seen from far at night 2)White card cast very solid shadows 3) White card box wrapped in Alunimiun foil reflects rather than channels light Therefore, for the Gateway project, it is better to use dark opaque materials to cast very definite shadows

33 reverse engineering facade BANQ Restaurant, Boston

In contemporary architecture, materials and their inherent properties are often fundamental points of departure for discovering and exploring new spatial possibilities and for designing different perceptions and experiences of architecture. Material effects are not only visual effects; they are experiential effects. According to Juhani Pallasmaa, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Authentic architectural experiences derive from real or ideated bodily confrontations rather than visually observed entities The construction of the restaurant was developed by the concept of the striated woodslatted system. It allows the sight of the mechanical, plumbing and lighting systems to be conceal from the publicâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eyes. Designed similarly to the structure of a canopy, the design approach, used in this project,allows the facade to appear seamless. This design concept - creating a seamless idea, is explored through our matrix and the the design that we are preparing for fabrication.

matrix: cut/fabricate

We decided to fabricate this because we thought it looked th emost interesting among all of the case studies. We liked how the enture building seemed to be peeling off and how fluid the restaurant looked. During fabrcation, we also designed a special holder so none of the layers are actually glued together and can be removed anytime. We thought that it was interesting concept that can be applied to the gateway project so that the structure can be easily moved if needed. It could also potientially be a possible design idea. Another concept that we came up was that the layers itself were very diverse, hence it could represent the diversity of Wyndham city. Hence, for our gateway project, we want a structure that is layered alongside the highway.

done by melissa

35reverse engineering facade Airspace, Tokyo

Airspace Tokyo is strongly displays the design approach of mixing voronoi, layering and lighting. Built of laser-cut aluminum and plastic composite , the facade produces an unique outlook as light travels through the detailed openings , drawing attentions of the passerby as they walked by. In relation to the Gateway project, this building explores one of the design requirements of our design - to be eyecatching and unique. Hence, as a group, we decided to fabricate it using a clear material. From the fabrication process, we realised that the voronoi patterning cut into a transparent surface can form intesting shadows. The results were a little unexpected. This is because we did not expect to see such clear shadows. matrix: cut/fabricate

However, unlike the shadows formed using wooden structure or the boxcard, it seems lighter, more fluid and less harsh. The form too is interesting. From afar, the glass appears cracked. However, upon further investigation, one would realise that it is actually a series of delicate patterns. This form can potientially be used for the gateway project as it eye catching and creates interesting patterns.

done by jasmine

37conclusion Competitive Advantage

Louis Sullivan once said that ‘the Roman Temple’ can no more exist in Chicago USA than the Roman Civilization can exist there. Similarly, although old techniques and methods do work, they are slowly being phased out for better and more advanced technology. This is because architecture embodies the ideologies of the age. Once a particular ideology is no longer accepted, it no longer becomes relatable. In this era, it is the advancement of technology. With the computer and the internet, we now have the ability to calculate and compute almost any type of data to its logical conclusion. Now, one now can effectively construct and fabricate a building for construction entirely on the computer. For instance, with the matrixes, I could effectively explore different ways of creating a facade, layers and even translating an image onto the facade of the building. Also if my design is complex and I wanted to see if it works, I could simply break it down on the computer and send it for fabrication. Compared to building it by hand, it both time-saving and efficient. Given that Wyndham city is a technological hub, having an innovative parametric facade that incorporates new design technologies through the approaches and materials that we had researched on would serve as an effective marketing strategy to demonstrate how strong the industry is doing. For the design proposal, we expanded on the idea used by the OMA research team in the precedence where the data of the surroundings were featured in the slab’s facade. My group’s design idea is to create an experience that showcases the culture of Wyndham city. In order to do so, the installation would require drivers to pass through it. The installation would be made up of different beams that form layers. Each layer would hold panels that would create interesting shadows which would make up the bulk of the experience. In conclusion, our proposed design would enrich Wyndham city by giving drivers something to look forward to and experience

eoi conclusion

Part 2.1 Gateway Project

39Wyndham city Background Information

Wyndham city is a vibrant and growing city. In fact, it has experienced the largest and fastest growth among the areas managed by the local Victorian local government. It is predicted that an estimation of 245,000 number of people will be living there by 2021 (Wyndham website).

Art Installation

Werribee Open Zoo

Background Information

Unlike others, Wyndham city is incredibly diverse. Besides having a strong industrial and technology district, it also consists of many major retail precincts, vegetation growing areas and even a tourist destination - featuring an Open Range Zoo (Wyndham website).

Wyndham city 40 The Site

Chosen Site Location (Red Square) on Plan (1:500)

Initially, we decided on focusing soley on the service road (for Werribee) because we wanted to focus on the people coming from the CBD into Wyndham city. However, after we finished the first draft model, we decided to move it to the fork in the road along the Princes Freeway (Eastbound) and the service road. Chosen Site Location (Approach)

This is because the installation is supposed to showcase the cultural diversity of Wyndham city and including the people headed for the CBD would entice them to visit Wyndham city in the future. In response to the flat and open landscape, our installation would be over six meters high and can be seen by drivers on the Westbound Princes Freeway and Wests Road.

The Site

)

41wyNdhAM ciTy

DESIGN CONCEPT

design idea - cultural Unity

DIFFERENT CULTURE GROUPS INTO

construction

MERGING

ONE

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT

SUDAN NEW ZEALAND BURMA CHILE INDIA RUSSIA CHINA ENGLAND

LOCAL AUSTRALIAN

25% 75%

DIFFERENT CULTURE GROUPS IN WYNDHAM CITY

deSiGN ideA - cULTURAL UNiTy

0 Our group decided to focus on the idea of the culture in an increasing population for Wyndham city. This is because an increase in population is mainly caused by newer residents who are foreigners.This would lead to an increase in diversity and culture in the area. The installation would demonstrate Wyndham city is a place where people of different races and background can live in unity. We decided on a series of panels held together by beams to create layers. Each panel signifies the merging of different cultures. The beams sysbolises the daily interactions and activities that residents partake in that helps them understand each other better.

OF COLUMNS

The width of the panels show how integrated the different cultures are. The more integrated the different cultures are, the smaller the hole. As the hole sizes decreases and are the smallest in the middle, it means that after constant interaction with different residents, the newer residents have successfully integrated into Wyndham city. Also, we wanted the drivers to experience Wyndham Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s culture first hand. We did so by having them drive through the installation with the shadows created by the sunlight serving as the cultural experience.

2. connection of

construction pr

43Wyndham city Design Process

Original Model (Top View)

Original Model (Perspective)

Our original idea was to create an installation that would be an experience for drivers going under the highway (located between site a and c). One would experience movement via the changing patterns caused by light entering the panels. The curve of the model is taken from the curve of the freeway. The original model is long and streamlined as it is supposed to show shape

Design Process

For the second model, firstly we decided to exemplify the effect of sunlight on our model by varying the dimensions of the internal penetrations of the panels. This change enabled us to further control the amount of light allowed into the installation. This would enhance the experience for people passing through. Secondly, we also experimented with the shape of the panel. Hence we changed it from a circle to a hexagon.

After learning from the first two models, we decided on our final model. The final model is very similar to the second model in terms of its function and form. However, it is double in length. Also, we added beams to hold the different panels together.

45Wyndham city Elaboration and Evolution of Grasshopper Definition

In order for the installation to fit properly onto the site, we traced the curvature ot the freeway onto rhino. The curve is then referenced in grasshopper

Arcs were drawn along the curvature of the freeway drawn above in order to create an enclosed tunnel-like space. In grasshopper, we then used the graph mapper to control the starting point and the length of the arc. The arcs are then rotated in order as if it were being twisted.

Elaboration and Evolution of Grasshopper Definition

The arcs were then scaled using the Scale NU (scale non-uniform factors) component.

After that the curves were further divided and all the invalid entries and small data branches were removed (divide curve, clean and prune components). The curve was then recreated and circular frames were added along the curves.

Wyndham city Elaboration and Evolution of Grasshopper Definition

the circles were then broken down again, connected and scaled to create the hexagon shape. The result was a series of hexagonal curves.

Openings were then created and the size of the openings were determined by control points. The variation would give the installation a controlled outcome

wyNdhAM ciTy 48 Model Grasshopper definition

MOdeL GRASShOPPeR defiNiTiON

49 wyNdhAM ciTy fabrication Process Grasshopper

Grasshopper Definition (Fabrication Process)

Resulting Pieces (Ready for Fabrication)

Tabs were created along both sides of the panels. Using the Boolean operation, holes were made along the corresponding curved beams which hold them in place. This makes for easy fabrication.

fABRicATiON PROceSS GRASShOPPeR

Wyndham city 50 Materiality

Glavanized Steel Columns

6 Meters

Glavanized Steel Panels

0 Meters

We chose galvanized steel because it has a long life expectancy and can last up to 50 years. This is the steel will not rust even if the galvanized layer (zinc) is damaged. This is because zinc is more reactive than iron (in the steel) and the zinc would corrode in place of the iron. Hence, it is also easier to maintain and provides automatic protection for damaged areas as scratches need not be touched up. One issue with galvanized steel however is that it is too reflective and can be responsible for car accidents and poor visibility which is hazardous along an the freeway.

There are numerous ways to combat the problem and it can even be solved by omiting any quenching steps such as chromating from the process and leaving it to weather naturally. However since this method would be extremely time comsuming, it is not very feasible Therefore, it would be best to simply dull the steel surface by applying acidic zinc phosphate to the surface of the newly galvanized steel. As the pieces are extremely big, the chemicals have to be sprayed onto the surface evenly. After an the correct dullness is reached, the process is stopped by washing away the chemicals with water.

Materiality

51 wyNdhAM ciTy construction details

Physical Prototype Testing Joinary (Bolted Together)

Panels acting as beams connecting the columns

cONSTRUcTiON deTAiLS

light entering and leaving

i. ATTACHING OF COLUMNS

The installation consist of steel panels and steel columns. The foundation system used would be a screw piling system. The steel panels are bolted to the pile cap which is a thick concrete mat that rest on the concrete piles that have been driven into the ground. The would provide for a stable foundation. Also due to the curvature of the columns, tension cable systems which are commonly found in cable bridges will be used to support the columns

The steel panels function as beams, holding the 2.together. connection ofarepanels columns The steel panels bolted to the columns. Contrary to the physical prototype, three screws would be used. We only used one screw because we were not able to fit all three screws in. The installation would be able to be completely assembled on site with the panels and columns being fabricated in a factory. The panels and penetrations would have to be laser cut.

53 wyNdhAM ciTy Model images 8AM

9AM

8am

8AM

9AM

10AM

glavanized steel columns

9am

9AM

10AM

11AM

shadow

CASTED AT

mns

glavanized

10am

0AM

- population gr

11AM

state of change shadow

CASTED AT DIFFERENT TIME OF THE DAY

11am

state of change shadow

glavanized steel panels - population growth ( width of the holes) - filter the amount of light entering and leaving

CASTED AT DIFFERENT TIME OF THE DAY

construction methods MOdeL iMAGeS

i. ATTACHING OF COLUMN

Prototype Model (1:50)

Final Model (1:50)

55 Wyndham city Pespective Views on Site

Image 3,4,5, Image 1 Image 6

Image 2

Location of Perspective Images On Site Plan

Pespective Views on Site

Closeup of Installation from Princes Highway West Bound (Day) 2

View of Installation from Princes Highway West Bound (Night)

57 Wyndham city Pespective Views on Site 3

Going Through the Installation (Day) 4

Going Through the Installation (Night)

Pespective Views on Site

Going Through the Installation (Rain) 6

Approaching the site (Sunrise)

59 Wyndham city Expression Of Interest

Wyndham city is one of the fastest growing city in Victoria, and as estimated, its population will increase to a total number of 120,000 dwellings in 2031. Unlike the surrounding cities, Wyndham has being experiencing a consistent increase of foreign migrants, of different races and backgrounds, who have since settled here since 2006. This had led to a new development of a new culture diversity in Wyndham, which became one of the main characteristic of the city. Wyndham city is seeking to design an eyecatching and exciting gateway along the Princes Highway to promote this unique aspects of a mufti-cultural aspects of theirs. Through the years, Wyndham has been working to re-establish a new image through its aesthetics. This re-establishment project provides Wyndham an opportunity to create a new impression of the city, for the locals as well as the visitors traveling on the Princes highway every day. Our primary goal of this project, is to mark Wyndham, itself, as a gateway through creating a design promoting the idea of cultural bridging.

Expression Of Interest

This bridging of culture diversity will serve, transcendentally, as a medium to exhibit to the public - the cultural changes occur ed in the past years. There is a considerable amount of population movement occurring on the highway each day traveling from one location to another along the highway. Our group distinguished this population representation as an important information to express Wyndhamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s existing status - the Constant change in culture. The development of a culture is an extension of two different cultures that are being bridged, allowing people from different cultural backgrounds to explore the differences in their views and ways of operating. Lastly,by merging our design intentions back to the context of the site, we will be looking into the structural systems within the area to develop further on the scope of depth of our design. We believe that these explorations of the abstract movement and relating it to the idea of culture of Wyndham in the various forms will serve as a representation of Wyndhamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s progress towards a diverse culture in the future.

Part 2.2 Reflection after feedback

61 Wyndham city Response to Feedback

During the feedback session, we were told that our model alone was relatively good. However, there was a disconnect between our idea and our final model as people would not be able to link culture to the model. In order to prevent this from ever happening in the future, we were told to always take a step backwards and ask yourself if the general public would be able to accept the rational behind the design. In the event where it is too late and we find ourselves unable to change the design, we should reexamine the model and try to figure out a new idea that would better represent the it.

Response to Feedback

Wyndham city 62 Ammended Design Idea

Wyndham city is one of the fastest growing city in Victoria, and as estimated, its population will increase to a total number of 120,000 dwellings in 2031. Wyndham city is seeking to design an eyecatching and exciting gateway along the Princes Highway. We wanted to create an installation to create an experience that would demonstrate that the population changes occurring in Wyndham city are happening very rapidly. The installation would be tunnel-like as it would create a pocket of space where the motorist would be completely engrossed in the experience. It would consist of a series of galvanized steel columns with steel panels that would function as beams. The panels would feature one aspect of Wyndham city, namely, the increase in population. Each panel will have different widths and the width of the holes is dependent on the population size. The panels are arranged in chronological order with panels with smaller holes at the bottom (less people) and panels with larger holes at the top (more people). The arrangement of the panels would represent the rapid increase in population size. The form of the installation would follow the curvature of the freeway. The streamlined nature of the installation would represent speed and hence that change in occurring rapidly. Also, the entire installation is only 42m long. The length would mean that cars would be passing through the structure rapidly (lest there is a traffic jam) and it would add to the illusion of speed.

The installation also serves as a marketing tool. We chose a modern and industrial looking material (galvanized steel) because we wanted to show that Wyndham city is forward looking. Wyndham city is also one of the technological centers in Victoria and using a modern looking material would help showcase that fact. Choosing the correct location is also very important to the design. We decided on the Princes Highway (East Bound) because it has the most traffic and the goal is to have as many people as possible experiencing it. This is because the installation serves as a visual introduction to the people living there. Furthermore, in response to the flat and open landscape, our installation is curved and is over six meters high. It would be very prominent even to those drivers along the opposite site of the road. In lieu of something more literal, we decided to demonstrate the rapid changes in Wyndham city by having a more abstract intent for the installation. This is because we believe that it is more effective for people to experience the speed of changes in Wyndham city rather than simply seeing it literally as it makes the structure more memorable. Therefore we hope our design will be considered as it is would give people passing through a comprehensive experience of Wyndham city.

Ammended Design Idea

Part 3 learning objectives and outcomes

65 learning objectives and outcomes Personal Background and Learning Objectives

Until I received the email before the start of the semester, I have never even heard of grasshopper. So naturally, I had no skills whatsoever. Although I have heard of rhino before, I have never used it before. Initially, I was a rather apprehensive because firstly, the course if still pretty experimental and I was afraid that like during Virtual Environments, I would be unable to keep up with the workload because I was not learning the software as fast as I should be. However, I decided that since it was compulsory, I would try my best and try to be as proficient as possible in grasshopper and rhino since it would help me a lot in future studios.

Personal Background and Learning Objectives

learning objectives and outcomes 66 Learning Progress

I basically approached the weekly task like a check list and I found that I spent a lot of time trying to find a suitable building to match the requirements. After that I basically browsed through the readings to try and link them with the weekly objectives. One problem that I found with the readings was that it was difficult to relate to. I spent a lot of time trying to understand what the rational behind the readings. A soon found that it was important to constantly reread the readings. A lot of the time, I found that I could only understand the article only after I read it the second or third time a while later. Also, in the beginning of the semester we had to do weekly grasshopper definitions. Following the instructions and getting them done were easy. However, I found that once I no longer had the manual to refer to, I was lost especially when it came to doing the matrixes. Also the manual used a lot of terminology that was difficult to understand. After we were given the matrix task, I spent a lot of time going through the manual and most of the time, I found it difficult to understand the terminology. Contrary to what I was told, I found that being decent at maths does not really help much in the scheme of things. Most of the time I was not able to translate what I understood onto grasshopper. I ended up spending more than two weeks alone trying to understand how the matrixes worked and what to do with them. The matrix exercise was useful because it really forced me to be somewhat familiar with grasshopper. Also the weekly quizzes helped test my understanding. There were times when I ended up referring back to the quiz when I was stuck.

My current approach to tackling a new design would be to firstly, know what I am trying to create. With that in mind, I would write the possible steps down on paper before starting as it helps me focus on the task at hand. Sometimes they do not work the way I want them and then I would experiment with different functions or try to find a solution on google. Although it can be extremely time consuming, I think that is the best approach for me until I become more familiar with grasshopper. Working in a group in a studio is a first for me. When it comes to design, sometimes it is easier to work alone because different people would have different visions and approaches and methodology. Personally I found that we were all on different wavelengths. Although I took organizational behavior as a breadth subject last semester, it did not prepare me for working together with my group. Theoretically, I knew that the best groups consist of people who are both cooperative and assertive who are effectively collaborating to achieve the best design possible. However what they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t teach you is how to apply the theories. I found that for most of the design process, we were mostly trying to find common group and our design was basically a result of us compromising with each other rather than collaborating. It also probably resulted in the idea not really matching up to the design. Thankfully, in the days leading up the the final presentation, we managed to finish because we split the task based on our strengths.

Learning Progress

67 learning objectives and outcomes Learning Outcomes

After doing the readings in week 1, I realized that After doing reading the Wyndham city proposal, I the reason why architecture design and techniques realized that we had to design something that was are ever changing is because of its link to the memorable and focus a lot on the approach as the beliefs of the era. For example, in the early 20th â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;gatewayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; project was located along a highway. This is century Le Corbusier believed in looking toward the to ensure that drivers can see whilst driving along the future and modern technology to refine heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work. highway. Hence, he used a lot of glass, concrete and steel. Similarly, there is yet again a different way of perThe cut definitions were good starting points to ceiving things in the 21st century. With the dawn of generate possible design ideas. From the cut definitechnology and the focus on the environment, most tions, my group decided on using layering, lighting buildings today are built using the computer and and voronoi patterning for the facade of our structure. are required by law to have a certain environmental On top of that, it is important to choose the correct rating for it to be built. Hence, with this constrains material for the design as different materials will age comes new forms and architectural designs. differently and the design intent could be ruined if the wrong material is chosen One thing I really took away from the readings is need to communicate effectively with the computer. Also with parametric design, one can use data about This is because using grasshopper is new to me and the local region or vegetation in their design. They sometimes, I find that I have to compromise my can do so in may different aspects. For instance original intent and use something else that is easier the number of possible layers in the facade can be to draw on the computer. Hence it was then that I based on the number of trees in a particular area in realized how important it was to learn the software Wyndham city or the number of circles in the facade properly and experiment with it as the computer can represent the average number of people passing is a powerful and important tool for experimenting though the city. It is also important for the structure with different definitions and matrices. to be relatable and easy for the passers-by to understand. We were exposed to parametric modeling. Parametric modeling is the process of associating and After doing the final model, the main lesson that exposing explicit parameters to computational I learnt was the importance of constantly taking a geometry. Generally, parametric buildings have the step back and checking to see if the idea was still tendency to enhance the feeling of being integrated relevant to the model. One difficulty that I often have in organically into the environment rather than be with grasshopper is that I am unable to relate to the forced to conform. Since architecture is generally design. For instance a simple facade with circular defined by the beliefs of their time, parametric penetrations can just seem like a series of holes modeling is a good way of representing the idea with nothing more than that. Our model might apof blending into the landscape. However, unlike pear as an ugly looking porcupine-like thing made scripting, parametric modeling would probably be a out of metal rather than an installation that provides phase that would probably be replaced once a bet- the motorist with an interesting experience. Hence, ter form for modeling is found. sometimes it is easier to be literal and obvious which comes with using components like an image sampler rather than a random bunch of attractor points. Learning Outcomes

learning objectives and outcomes 68 Future Work

Now (finally), I can roughly create basic layers and models on grasshopper. Learning grasshopper turned out to be extremely useful. For my landscape studio this semester, I applied what I learnt about grasshopper for the class. I managed to create a basic framework for my green wall with a voronoi facade. Although I would not use it probably as much as AutoCAD which I am more familiar with because it is very time consuming, it is a very useful tool. I would probably use it when trying to create interesting shaped designs and facades and hopefully, over time and with much practice I would more proficient in it.

Future Work

69 Bibliography Andrew Rosenberg, ‘Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower by Tange Associates’, (2011). Branko Kolarevic, Architecture in the Digital Age - Design and Manufacturing Taylor & Francis, 2003). Chistopher Hawthorne, ‘Frank Gehry’s Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health in Las Vegas’, Los Angeles Times, 19 May 2010. Cynthia Ottchen, ‘The Future of Information Modelling and the End of Theory Less Is Limited, More I s Different’, Architectural Design, 79 (2009), 22-27. Joseph Giovannini, ‘Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health - Las Vegas Gehry Partners’, in ArchitectA merican Institute of Architects, 2011), pp. 84-94. LAVA (Laboratory for Visionary Architecture), ‘Mswct Snowflake Tower’ (2008) <http://www.l-a-v-a. net/projects/mswct-snowflake-tower-2/> [Accessed 22 April 2012]. Mark Burry, Scripting Cultures: Architectural Design and Programming Wiley & Sons, (2011). Method Design, ‘Louisana State Sports Hall of Fame + Regional History Museum’ (2012) <http:// www.methoddesign.com/lsh/> [Accessed 22 April 2012]. Paul Noritaka Tange and Minami Masato, ‘Mode Gakeun Cocoon Tower’, Council on Tall Buildings and Habitat (2009), 16-19. Tom Gorman, ‘Ruvo Center Architect’s Form Helps Direct Focus on a Cure’, Las Vegas Sun, 6 April 2010. Trahan Architects, ‘Lousiana Sports Hall of Fame Museum’ (2012) <http://www.trahanarchitects. com/#/worksinprogress/project_three_image_7> [Accessed 22 April 2012]. William J. R. Curtis, Modern Architecture since 1900. 3rd edn (London: Phaidon Press Limited, 1996), p. 736. Yehuda E. Kalay, Architecture’s New Media: Principles, Theories, and Methods of Computer-Aided DesignMIT Press, 2004), p. 536.

Biblography