Why is it important to accurately model the land features of your project site with a toposurface?
The toposurface must accurately model a project site so that designers can integrate the features of the terrain into their structure. Aspects of the building such as the foundation, the materials, and the structural soundness of a building are all influenced by terrain features. For instance, concrete walls may be used to fortify underground levels, while lighter wood paneling may be used for aboveground levels.
When designing a project...
The building should reflect the terrain, within the constraints of the client’s specifications. Without first considering the physical nuances of the site, the designer cannot create a project that meshes well with its surroundings. The terrain can also serve as inspiration — in the case of the vacation house, the steep hillside location is perfect for a multi-story building. The designer can draw from the influence of the terrain, as long as it doesn’t stand in the way of the building’s function.
What are the advantages of stacking the levels of a multi-story building vertically?
Vertical stacking is a compact way to create multiple stories. This is optimal for structures that must maximize a limited amount of space, such as apartment buildings, urban residences, and offices. Non-vertical stacking, as seen in the Waverley Residence by Ehrlich Yanai Rhee Chaney Architects, may add an artistic, contemporary flair to an otherwise simple building.