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

By using the mass function, the floor area can be easily calculated even in the case of a complicated building with different plan shapes on each floor. Therefore, it is a very effective function when determining the shape and size of a building.

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?

City Hall, London

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