Points to Ponder

Conceptual models using masses allow the overall building design to be made quickly and without too much effort. Since the project owners will most likely be interested in the overall design before diving into the details, a conceptual design model allows for the general ideas to be visualized and modified prior to including specific elements and detailed design.

When is it needed/appropriate? And when not?

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

Using conceptual mass models is most likely a first step for many large, capital intensive, and aesthetically interesting buildings. These types of buildings are both expensive to design and build and have the "wow" factor associated with them. An example of one of these buildings could be the Marina Bay Sands hotel in Singapore (pictured below). This unique and captivating building is often associated with Singapore's impressive built environment. Due to the unique shape and the magnitude of the project, conceptual mass modeling would help all parties involved with the project iterate through ideas and options before diving into the details of the building.