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

Using conceptual design modeling is a huge time saver. It allows you to create large structures in a short amount of time. Using the masses helps to create abstract shapes that would be difficult creating any other way. Lastly, most skyscrapers use a symmetrical layout on each floor to create a sturdy foundation and to make the design process easier, which is why using masses is so useful. Using masses gives the architect the ability to quickly replicate a floor layout on a different level, saving a lot of time.

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?

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.

This building in Nagoya, Japan most likely used conceptual mass models due to its curved walls and curtain wall systems. It has a very abstract shape.

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