Module 6 - Points to Ponder

Using masses allows designers to conceptualize the initial shape of the building before they begin to focus on smaller details. This order of focus is ideal for larger buildings where the overall exterior shape of the building usually takes priority. This is contrasted by residential design where individual rooms and spaces are often designed, and then put together to form the overall exterior shape of the building.

When is it needed/appropriate? And when not?

For example, should you create a conceptual mass model of a small house?

For larger buildings, which will have a significant impact on the surrounding environment, it is more appropriate to use a conceptual mass modeling. From this approach, designers can focus on the overall shape of the building, how it will be perceived by the public, and how it will interact with surrounding buildings.

For smaller builds, like a house, I believe conceptual mass design is not the best option. In this case, priority should be placed on individual spaces, and how they will be used. Therefore, for the residential case, I believe it is better to design interior spaces, then stitch them together to form the exterior shape of the building.

Please post and share images of these examples to this Notion page.