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?
No, not all buildings should be modeled first using conceptual masses. Small houses and less complex projects would not benefit from conceptual mass modeling as much as large scale, unique projects. Conceptual masses are most needed or appropriate when creating a building that has a unique shape/architectural design that cannot be created using normal walls. When modeling more conventional houses or building structures it is more appropriate to use standard procedure of building from the ground up with floors and walls.
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?
NiterĂ³i Contemporary Art Museum — NiterĂ³i, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
This building has a very unique shape and was likely created using conceptual mass models.