What are the principal advantages of creating a conceptual design model using masses before diving into the detailed design and building element modeling?
The main advantages of creating conceptual design models using massing over element modeling is that conceptual massing allows architects and the design team to more rapidly iterate and prototype the building’s form and function. Conceptual massing allows for quicker assessments of a building’s feasibility and easy communication of ideas to stakeholders. Overall, conceptual massing is beneficial because it allows a design team to focus on the critical architectural decisions for a building and its surrounding area, without getting too caught up in the details.
Should all buildings be modeled first using conceptual masses?
Not all buildings need to be modeled using conceptual masses. I tend to think that more traditional designs, like a single-family home with standard elements, does not need require conceptual massing for most stakeholders to accurately complete the project. However, for more complex, unique, never-been-done-before structures, conceptual massing is appropriate because it can help the design team begin to understand the building’s: it’s role in a surrounding city/neighborhood, it’s function as a public structure, it’s appearance during the day/night, etc.