Module 6 - Points to Ponder

What are the principal advantages of creating a conceptual design model using masses before diving into the detailed design and building element modeling?

Conceptual masses can allow the designer to make a quick model of the building’s overall shape. Doing this allows for comparing different design options

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?

Conceptual masses are important to be used when you are creating a complex building with many different floors or features. This will simplify the building design and provide a starting point. It is not necessary for uniform designs that already have expected layouts, like houses.

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