Modeling Approach & Design Description
The design and development of my parametric shelter model closely follow the guidelines provided in the assignment. I began by conceptualizing the type of shelter I wanted to create and identifying the controlling geometries that would allow me to achieve this vision. My goal was to design a realistic and implementable outdoor stage cover — a semi-enclosed space suitable for performances while offering shelter from the elements.
The form of the shelter is defined by five controlling lines: two outer lines, two inner lines, and a middle line. From the front elevation, I aimed to create a wavy, dynamic roofline that still evokes a triangular, house-like silhouette. This was achieved not through sine functions, but through strategically placed lines with defined constraints — such as setting the central line as the peak, and placing the inner lines at heights between the outer and center lines. This approach also allows me to adjust the position of the inner line (between the middle and outer line) to a spot that creates a curve that I prefer. Overall, this approach allowed me to maintain geometric flexibility while preserving the architectural intent.
In the plan view, the outer lines are intentionally shorter than the inner and middle lines, creating a subtle curvature. This design choice not only adds visual interest but also serves a functional purpose — it opens up sightlines for audience members positioned to the sides, ensuring that columns do not obstruct views of the stage.
For the shelter panels, I used the “Rect_Panel with Resizable Opening: Glazing” adaptive panel, which enabled me to define parameters controlling the size of operable openings within each panel. This approach allows natural daylight to illuminate the stage during daytime performances while minimizing glare and reducing the need for artificial lighting. The curved form of the shelter enhances this effect, allowing sunlight to filter through at varying angles throughout the day, casting dynamic patterns and adding a playful, engaging atmosphere to the stage environment.
The structural columns were created by generating points along the outer controlling lines and projecting them vertically to the ground plane (z = 0). These columns were then assigned a family type and adjusted in thickness to suit the overall design. To enhance the visual cohesion of the structure and partially conceal the columns, I incorporated vertical side panels on both sides of the stage, drawing away attention from the columns. These panels follow a gridded pattern and serve both aesthetic and functional purposes — allowing filtered sunlight to enter from the sides while complementing the overall form. The use of rounded columns further reinforces the curvilinear language of the design.
After completing the design, I thought that the same structure could be used for bus shelters too. The openings at the columns side could help commuters check out the buses that are arriving without having to step out. The grid for the aesthetic panel could be adjusted such that there are lesser panels installed to create a better view.
List parameters that can be adjusted:
Shelter:
- Dimensions of Shelter
- Length of Outer Lines
- Height of Middle Line
- Height and Position (between Outer and Middle) of Inner Lines
- Grid Points of Shelter
- Thickness of Panels
- Size of Panel Opening (Window)
Columns:
- Number of Columns
- Thickness of Columns
- Grid Points of Aesthetic Side Panels to Conceal Columns
- Thickness of Side Panels