Airjournal 2013s2 thanidakiranantawat by thanida.kwat

On the other hand, the pure sculptural form is left in ambiguity where ‘contextualists can find in it Serville’s traditional old trees or the vaults of the cathedral, while others perceive it to as mushrooms, sunshade, landscape or clouds.’[13] The scale and the unique structure provide a visual impact and new perspective in framing the view of the historic buildings. However beneath the discourse on its aesthetics and the subsequent price to pay for its completion during the economic crisis, it is the functionality of Metropol Parasol that extends its uniqueness as an iconic architecture. The concept of parasol extends the use of the square beyond an icon for its skywalk serves to celebrate the historic buildings, market, café, museum and event space. Therefore, ‘architecture museum here shifts from functional determinism to programmatic activism’.[14] Metropol Parasol not only contributed to architectural discourse as the world’s largest timber frame structure held together by glue, it also can also be used as case study of for how iconic architecture should not only appeal for its form but also its functionality for people to give its meaning and life.

Through computation, the algorithm created in the virtual environment can be stimulated to examine the building performance in terms of structure, materials and environment. The result is a performance-based design. This ability to evaluate designs early influenced the formal exploration during the design process and enhances communication with professionals from different disciplinary aiding the tight time frame. This innovative technology is crucial in contemporary architectural language where the skin of the building takes the formal and structural role. Thus it is needless to say that computation is needed for my area of focus on Tensile Architecture where materials performance and engineering of the structure are the foundation of the design. Fu Furthermore, with emerging technology, complex digital 3D model can be fabricated into prototype and manufactured for construction. The digital fabrication does not only help in achieving complex form often found in large iconic public buildings, it helps in aiding construction of residential home with accurately fabricated pieces and thus reduce wastage of materials as well as transportation.[4] wastage of materials as well as transpo There may be a day where computation will finally be the natural process in designing, and applied in various ways on residential to commercial building and even furniture design projects. Computation is a potential tool for architects to generate a new discourse in architecture. As As contemporary architecture is making its statement in many cities around the world, computation plays an integral part in developing these iconic structures. Hence I feel that this method of designing is suitable for the Western Gateway Design Project.

The membrane is a structural system taking the tensile pressure while the steel take compressive load. The whole roof is made up of 150 membranes and 650 geometrically different steel elements to accommodate the curvature of the intended form for sun shading purpose.[7] Data extracted from parametric model is then used for fabrication of the unique pieces with great accuracy. The overall design exudes simplicity aesthetics behind the sophisticated engineering calculations. The design would have not been achieved without computation technique where precision is needed for the engineering of the membrane and its fabrication. The similar application of parametric modelling is can be observed in the Bao’ an International Airport in Shenzhen. Parametric tessellation model was set up study the complex geometry of the metal and glass cladding over the curved structural system. Constraints such as size and slope of glass pieces determined by day lighting, solar gain and view were input as the basis on the model. Together with the input from engineering analysis, different variations of roof cladding designs were achieved. The optimized linear configuration of claddings is chosen.[8] This precedent shows computation is a necessary tool in producing complex geometry without may limit the performance of the design.

Hence parametric modeling techniques were adopted to create the ‘families’ where it analyzes the similarity of the individual hexagonal panels across the curved surface and grouped them. The family is then used across the surface with numerous adjustments. In this way, the accurate analysis helps to reduce variations in size. This is something that would never be achieved with computer. The project also develop central 3-D model where the panels specification are extracted for fabrication. The engineering aspect of the project was also stimulated in the virtual 3-D environment. Clear communications across disciplinary is achieved where the design information are graphical presented and precise. Computation is evermore useful in dealing with complex design and constructions at large scale. The new relationship formed across discipline, as a product of computation is valuable and should not be overlooked. It allows our ideas to advance quickly due to the ease of sharing information and knowledge. Architect’s imagination is hence no longer confined by the engineering feat.

In order to achieve this, parametric modeling system is used to explore formal configuration to accommodate the function of the building within the continuous spatial structure explored using the analogue model. With the digitized analogue sketches and models following initial concept ideas, parametric model is built based on them as constraints. To do that, designers develop rough grid of circles where they are grouped based on two different zones in an alternating way. Voronoi Raster Model is then use to create self-generating grid controlled by the rough layout. The parametric points are actively networked with the model structure of the membrane, hence volumetric structure is formed. The volumetric structure created from minimal surface is then used to structu create spatial zones as well as structural support. Linking and ‘stacking’ the membrane surfaces together thus achieve the building overall structure. The surfaces of combined algorithm are then smoothen to give sculpture-like and organic space. Although the initial formal aesthetic is not developed using para metric modelling, the resultant form is very much determined by the feedback from digital stimulations, which optimized the functions and configures the complex membrane structure. This function follows form approach can be inefficient without the use of digital innovations. However Ito uses the help of technology to realize his vision of nature mimicry spaces where parametric design goes beyond the design of exterior and structure to the interior spaces. In addition to contributing to the world of architecture in term of engineering techniques, employing parametric design gives new possibilities and interpretations to how an opera house can look like and how it would attract new audience. From this precedent, it is clear that parametric modeling plays an important role in innovative design that could give new definition to a gateway design. 20

A.1 REFERENCE 1. Thomas A. Dutton and Lian Hurst Mann. Reconstructing Architecture: Critical Discourses and Social Practices (Minneapolis: University of Minnesota Press), p. 1 2. Oxford Dictionaries, ‘Definition of architecture in English’ <http://oxforddictionaries.com/definition/english/architecture> [accessed 18 August 2013] 3. Archigram, dir. by Archigram, BBC Productions (1966) 4. Richard Williams, 'Architecture and Visual Culture', in Exploring Visual Culture : Definitions, Concepts, Contexts, ed. by Matthew 4. Rampley (Edinburgh: Edinburgh University Press, 2005), pp. 102 - 116. 5. Gili Merin, ‘AD Classics: The Plug-In City / Peter Cook, Archigram’, in archdaily <http://www.archdaily.com/399329/ad-classics-the-plug-in-city-peter-cook-archigram/> [accessed 18 August 2013] 6. Maria Kaika, ‘Architecture and crisis: re-inventing the icon, re-imag(in)ing London and re-branding the City’, Transactions of the Institute of British Geographers, 35 (2010), pp. 453–474 (p.469) 7. Igal Charney, ‘The politics of design: architecture, tall buildings and the skyline of central London’, Area, 39 (2007), pp.195-205 7. (p.169) 8. Igal Charney, ‘The politics of design: architecture, tall buildings and the skyline of central London’, Area, 39 (2007), pp.195-205 (p.201) 9. Igal Charney, ‘The politics of design: architecture, tall buildings and the skyline of central London’, Area, 39 (2007), pp.195-205 (p.201) 10. Marianne Freiberger, ‘Perfect buildings: the maths of modern architecture’, in plus < http://plus.maths.org/content/perfect- 10. buildings-maths-modern-architecture> [accessed 18 August 2013] 11. Jürgen Mayer H, ‘Metropol Parasol, Seville’, Architectural Design, 82 (2012), pp. 70–73 (p.73) 12. Emilie Lemons, ‘Metropol parasol’, in glass <http://www.theglassmagazine.com/forum/article.asp?tid=2759#title> [accessed 18 August 2013] 13. Jürgen Mayer H, ‘Metropol Parasol, Seville’, Architectural Design, 82 (2012), pp. 70–73 (p.73)

14. Jürgen Mayer H, ‘Metropol Parasol, Seville’, Architectural Design, 82 (2012), pp. 70–73 (p.73)

A.2 REFERENCE 1. Brady Peters, ‘Computation Works: The Building of Algorithmic Thought’, Architectural Design, 83 (2013), pp. 8-13 (p.10) 2. Yehuda E. Kalay, Architecture's New Media : Principles, Theories, and Methods of Computer-Aided Design (Cambridge, Mass.: MIT Press, 2004), pp. 9 3. Branko Kolarevic, Architecture in the Digital Age: Design and Manufacturing (New York; London: Spon Press, 2003), pp. 7 4. Bruce Bell and Sarah Simpkin, ‘Domesticating Parametric Design’, Architectural Design, 83 (2013), pp.88-91 (p.91) 5. Sean Ahlquist and Achim Menges, ‘Introduction’, in Sean Ahlquist and Achim Menges (eds), Computational Design Thinking 5. (Chichester, UK: John Wiley & Sons) 6. Achim Menges, ‘AA Component Membrance’, < http://www.achimmenges.net/?p=4445 > [accessed 18 August 2013] 7. 'AA Membrane Canopy in London’, in DETAIL < http://detail-online.com/inspiration/aa-membrane-canopy-in-london- 103531.html> [accessed 18 August 2013] 8. Jan Knippers, ‘From Model Thinking to Process Design’, Architectural Design, 83 (2013) pp.74–81 (pp.80-81) 9. Fernando Romero, Armando Ramos, ‘Bridging a Culture: The Design of Museo Soumaya’, Architectural Design, 83 (2013) 9. pp.66–69 (pp.69) 10. Fernando Romero, Armando Ramos, ‘Bridging a Culture: The Design of Museo Soumaya’, Architectural Design, 83 (2013) pp.66–69 (pp.66)

A.3 REFERENCE 1. Robert Aish and Robert Woodbury, ‘Multi-level Interaction in Parametric Design’, in Smart Graphics: 5th International Sympo sium, ed. by Andreas Butz, Brian Fisher, Antonio Kruger, and Patrick Olivier (Frauenworth Cloister: Spinger), pp. 151-162 (p.152) 2. Robert Woodbury, Elements of Parametric Design (London: Routledge), pp. 7-22 (p.11) 3. Patrik Schumacher, ‘Parametricism: A New Global Style for Architecture and Urban Design’, Architectural Design, 79 (2009), pp.14–23 (p.16) 4. Pia Ednie-Brown, Mark Burry and Andrew Burrow, ‘The Innovative Imperative: Architectures of Vitality’, Architectural Design, 83 4. (2013), pp. 8–17 (p.16) 5. Lena Rundt, ‘Taichung Opera House, 2014’, < https://plus.google.com/114013519433550342072/posts/BMuebMV9yi5> [accessed 18 August 2013] (para.1 of 93) 6. Lena Rundt, ‘Taichung Opera House, 2014’, < https://plus.google.com/114013519433550342072/posts/BMuebMV9yi5> [accessed 18 August 2013] (para.1 of 92) 7. Andrzej Piotrowski, ‘Architecture or critical theories’, in Theory for the Sake of the Theory, v1, E. Duyan ed. (Istanbul: DAKAM 7. Publishing, 2011), pp. 166-178 (p.173)

The following precedents explore the use of computation to generate minimal surface and membrane structures at different scales as well as with different membrane materials. This lead to various possibilities in the outcome of forms that can be applied to the gateway designs.

he generation of membrane structure at human scale create unique spatial experience for their organic curves that bring people out of everyday context. The seamless appeal as seen can be acheived with the use of concrete in the case of Taichung Opera House where computation was used to digitized the membrane structure model before optimizing the design with functional needs. On the other hand, the German Pavilion made use of string to create varying enclosures within the space. Though similar in design apprach with double curved surface structure in both projects, different user experience as well as visual impacts are achieved for its level of porisity and surface treatment. These variations can be considered for gateway design to generate new ideas. tr 40

Lattice Density

Shape Manipulation

Structural Anchorpoint Structural Tension Twisting Lattice

It is clear that relaxed surface relies on lattice structure where is used as roof membrane. The characteristics of the surface allows for transparency in which the lattice can be expressed. However relaxed surface in itself contain potential aesthetic values that offer breakaways or balance from rigidity of structure. Hence the following explorations study formal possiblities of relaxed surface on varying structural formations. 49

According to the scale of the gateway design, tengrity structure may not react to wind force depending on its overall weight. Hence mechanism driven tensegrity structure can be looked into to create interactivity with the car. This is possible as shown in the above precedent. A university student project, a 21 strut tensegrity can react to movement based on human-tuned activity sensor by changing tension members in its tenson net.[11] This shape-changing capability can generate interest for the motorist for a ‘living’ sculpture. Thing that is in motion can also cause more awareness. 59

The form generated is placed into the site to study the scale and overall outcome. The narrow end of site A was chosen as bubbles can be blown toward the road for the short distances. The undulating ground would be a sculptural element sitting between the two highways. 74

As the anchorpoint has to be soaked to absorb soap solution for soap film to be formed, a pool of solution has to be constructed into the ground. A motor would rail the anchorpoint down to absorb the solution. 75

Thus the technique developed aims to generate impactful or giant bubble that can be used to welcome people into the city by channeling wind from the prevailing directions. Grasshopper would be used as form finding tool. Kangaroo would be used to simulate wind for visualisation and potential optimisation of the design. The bubble generating system would be The mechanically controlled to continuously produce bubbles. It would be minimal and simple in appearance so as to not distract the attention away from the bubble. In In conclusion, by looking at the source of inspiration for minimal surface structure, we are able to seek the true aesthetic of minimal surface that architecture has yet to innovate to generate the same interest from the people.

he following explorations look at possibility in determining the shape and size of bubble formed according to design of the frame. Articulated star shape frame is tested as a basis to find out if the shape of frame would affect the shape of bubble. The outcome does not present any variation from other frame shape. Due to the scale of the project which aims to create an impact for the fast approaching motorists, the bubbles generated should be big in size. By patterning the frame into smaller segments, the minimal surfaces are formed more easily. They are more resilient as more solution are absorbed. The bubbles produced from the adjacent surfaces would join together to form big bubble before breaking away into smaller bubbles as the wind blows. Therefore the size of the frame needs to be manipulated according the wind speed from different directions. For example, needs large frame can be designed to face calm wind condition in generating pure single giant bubbles. The outcome of the explorations suggest a level of control that can be exerted on bubble formation.

This idea developed from the concerns of the earlier exploration. Upward generation of bubbles would ensure 360 degrees viewing. Here the form designed to capture the wind is crucial as it would help to direct and potentially increase or decrease the strength of the wind to generate bubble.

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The design of this system aims to capture different wind directions as the minimal surface is twisted to form three-dimensional shape. The twisted soap surface would be dynamic in its visibility as it is able to reflect light from more directions The frame would be rotated around ball-bearing mechanism after it is dipped into pool of solution. By doing so, we are able to have a system where bubbles would form most of the times. The design can be applied as a modular panel that populate across the site.

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For the facade to generate minimal surface, the bubble solution pools take ring shape and are found at four levels across the structure to accommodate the curvature of the form and to allow continuous forming of minimal surface and bubbles. Gear system is desiged to constantly dip the rope frame into the soloution. The pipes channeling the solution to the pools would be concealed into the structure. 132

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e build this model to simulate the system proposed earlier involving the use of gear to rotate the rope frame in a loop where it would be dipped into the bubble solution at the buttoom. The mechanism works as we expected in successfully forming minimal surface. However it was not able to rotate well due to inconsistent gaps in the belts made and the material used.

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The installation can be a place where kids and even adult play with bubbles that are produced by the living skin of the pavillion. Standing among the vast suburban landscape, the unique structure hopes to become a landmark where people would aasociate with Wyndham.

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C. REFERENCE 1. TED, ‘Speakers Michael Hansmeyer: Computational architect’, in TED <http://www.ted.com/speakers/michael_hansmeyer.html> [accessed 27 October 2013] 2. Adam Gorczica, ‘Motion as modern way of expressing architecture’, <http://cgg-journal.com/2005-3/04/> [accessed 27 October 2013]

3. Ellie Zolfagharifa 3. Ellie Zolfagharifard, ‘The inflatable, antibacterial BUILDING: Architects designs bizarre office block to keep out germs from Shanghai city centre’, in MailOnline <http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-2463214/Bubble-Building-The-inflatable-antibacterial-BUILDING.html> [accessed 27 October 2013]

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