Module 6 - Points to Ponder

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Module 6 - Points to Ponder
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Please share your comments on 2 of the following Points to Ponder questions. (Choose 2 of the questions below.)

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 of a building model is beneficial because the surrounding environment can be easily seen on a superficial level to analyze how the building will interact with its surroundings. The ability to analyze factors such as wind, noise, and sunlight are all extremely helpful when building in densely populated areas where the external factors will have a significant impact on how the building is designed. 

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 necessarily need a conceptual mass first before further modeling. For example, a large skyscraper where energy efficiency is extremely important and surrounding environmental factors will have a significant impact on design would benefit from first conceptual modeling. However, a small family home has less of an impact on surrounding buildings, and is less impacted by surrounding buildings, so it may not need to be conceptually modeled before more detailed modeling.

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?

  1. One World Trade Center: https://www.archdaily.com/795277/one-world-trade-center-som
  2. CMG Headquarters: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CMG_Headquarters#/media/File:China_Central_Television_Headquarters_2.jpg
  3. Twisting torso: https://www.archdaily.com/771471/santiago-calatravas-turning-torso-wins-ctbuhs-10-year-award
  4. Apple campus: https://www.archdaily.com/804970/apple-campus-2-held-to-fantastical-standard-of-detail-new-report-reveals
  5. Salesforce tower: https://www.archdaily.com/889519/salesforce-tower-pelli-clarke-pelli-architects