What are the principal advantages of creating a conceptual design model using masses before diving into the detailed design and building element modeling?
Using Mass models is beneficial because you can better see structure and shape of your model compared to its surroundings, especially in a city setting. The mass design model also allows you to test certain external parameters such as sunlight, wind and other factors which go beyond the scope of mere building. These are important factors to deal with before designing more specific areas of the model.
Should all buildings be modeled first using conceptual masses?
If you are designing a somewhat simple structure in a non-urban area, with closely surrounding buildings, I do not need to use conceptual mass modeling. This is because a building like this wouldn’t need to be analyzed based off of external or surrounding elements if space is around the structure, and the structure itself is not complex enough where implementing conceptual mass would give you monumental insight.
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?
- One World Trade Center: https://www.archdaily.com/795277/one-world-trade-center-som
- CMG Headquarters: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CMG_Headquarters#/media/File:China_Central_Television_Headquarters_2.jpg
- Twisting torso: https://www.archdaily.com/771471/santiago-calatravas-turning-torso-wins-ctbuhs-10-year-award
- Apple campus: https://www.archdaily.com/804970/apple-campus-2-held-to-fantastical-standard-of-detail-new-report-reveals
- Salesforce tower: https://www.archdaily.com/889519/salesforce-tower-pelli-clarke-pelli-architects