M1 journal

Digital Design - Module 01 Semester 1, 2018 Yingxue Hu

(906020) Xiaoran + Studio 3

Week One

Reading: Zeara Polo, A. 2010. Between Ideas and Matters.

According to Zeara-Polo, the diagram does not play a representational role in the design process but provides an organisational and can have a performative quality depending on how it is deployed. Explain how Diagram is different from Signs and Symbols? (100 words Maximum)

A symbol is a sign which refers to its dynamic object through a formal representation. In the sign, the relationship between form and content is totally arbitrary and immaterial. Diagrams describe relationships and prescribes performances in space. It does not necessarily contain metric or geometric information. It always has a spatial correlation. Diagram shows the conposition process through a simplified yet also abstracted way. The diagram allows the emergence of another possible world.

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Week One

Precedent Analysis

process 1.Individual components

process 2.attaching curves

Nico Saieh, Radix, 2012, Camera, https://www.archdaily.com/267567/venicebiennale-2012-radix-aires-mateus. process 3. combination

process 4.use of Boolean tool

Radix is formed by four parts which are two spheres, one cube and one ellipsoid. Modelling the four parts and attaching curves by using “contour“ “project“ to spheres and ellipsoid. Moving and rotating them to the places where they intersect with the cube. Lastly, using “Boolean“ tool to cut out their intersections.

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Week Two

Reading: Hertzberger H. 2005. The in-between and The Habitable Space Between Things, from Lessons for Students in Architecture.

Herzberger discuss how design should not be extreme in its functionality. Use your precedent study to explain how the pavilion allows for an appropriation of use. (100 words Maximum)

The basic function of Radix is for people to visit. It can be approached through different entrance. It is great fun to go through Radix.

Besides, people can lean against it and take a rest. The most amazing thing Radix provides is its being located by the waterfront. The location goes perfectly with its shape if people sit under Radix by the waterfront. As the semicircular arch is right behind and it looks like it is hanging over and surrounding you, it is so peaceful as you sit there and look at your shadow down in the water. People can either enjoy their own by just siting under it and looking a book or enjoying the surroundings or gather together to walk along the causeway and come down to the stairs and have a wonderful chatting.

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Week Two

Isometric

Isometric View Radix is basically composed with three single objects cut out from a cube. It is an arch supported on three points and a fourth end suspended over the water, creating a sense of balance to a heavy structure. Main tools used when modelling it are “project“ and “boolean“, with the former one to attache curves to these objects and the latter one for spliting. Hidden curve lines are shown in order to present its form and shape better. In terms of the circulation, it’s got more than one entrance and exits and people can move under it. There is also one arch which is much lower that do not allow for going though. Conceptually, this structure combines history with the contemporary and the technology. Radix is a structure that suggests continuity over novelty.

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Week Two Diagrams

Circulation Diagram

Threshold Diagram

It can be approached from different directions. The circulation space is alomost a rectangle apart from a single space which cannot be easily accessed by adult people as the arch there is lower.

The lower arch though do not allow for entrance of people but it does provide a space for resting. The stairs can be seen as a threshold as well because it marks the radix off the waterfront.

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Appendix

Process

Ellipsoid Sphere 1

Sphere 2

Structure analyzing and simple drawing based on the floor plan 7

Appendix Process

modelling with potatos

adding surroundings and figures 8