What are the principal advantages of creating a conceptual design model using masses before diving into the detailed design and building element modeling?
Creating a conceptual design model using masses allows designers to explore and compare different forms and spatial configurations before committing to detailed modeling. This early-stage approach helps avoid costly redesigns later by identifying and resolving major design issues early on. It also enables the design team to visualize the overall appearance and scale of the project, facilitating discussions and obtaining stakeholder agreement at an early stage.
Should all buildings be modeled first using conceptual masses?
When is it needed/appropriate? And when not?
For example, should you create a conceptual mass model of a small house?
Not all buildings need to be modeled using conceptual masses. Mass modeling is particularly useful for large-scale or complex projects where the building form significantly affects the surrounding environment, such as sunlight, wind patterns, or skyline. It is also important when stakeholder agreement is required, as it helps visualize and communicate design intent early in the process. However, for small projects like individual houses, where the environmental and contextual impact is minimal, creating a conceptual mass model is usually unnecessary.
Can you think of any examples of a real building around the world that most likely was created by exploring the form using conceptual mass models?
Please post and share images of these examples to this Notion page.
How would you abstract the essential form of these famous buildings using conceptual mass elements that you can create in Revit?
- One World Trade Center: https://www.archdaily.com/795277/one-world-trade-center-som
- CMG Headquarters: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CMG_Headquarters#/media/File:China_Central_Television_Headquarters_2.jpg
- Twisting torso: https://www.archdaily.com/771471/santiago-calatravas-turning-torso-wins-ctbuhs-10-year-award
- Apple campus: https://www.archdaily.com/804970/apple-campus-2-held-to-fantastical-standard-of-detail-new-report-reveals
- Salesforce tower: https://www.archdaily.com/889519/salesforce-tower-pelli-clarke-pelli-architects