Modeling a Parametric Structure
Transforming Your Geometry
For my model, I designed a mini stage canopy for a park that can provide partial shelter for small performances, and outdoor activities while still feeling open and connected to the landscape. I wanted the form to feel light and dynamic rather than using a typical flat roof, so I used smooth curved surfaces with four supporting columns and a flowing canopy shape inspired by bandstage structures. The curved roof helps create a stronger architectural identity while also improving shade and rain protection. I chose a simple but flexible geometry so the structure could be easily adjusted parametrically depending on the size of the park or the function of the stage.
In Stage 1, I focused on building the main controlling curves and canopy surface using Dynamo in Revit. I created two main curved edges and lofted them into a smooth canopy surface, then added four structural columns as supports.
In Stage 2, I added more parametric flexibility by transforming the main controlling curve into a wave form using a sine function. This allows the canopy to move beyond a simple arch and become more expressive and dynamic. I used Wave Count and Wave Height as the main parameters:
- Wave Count controls how many waves appear across the canopy curve
- Wave Height controls how high or deep the wave deformation becomes
When minimized, the canopy returns close to the original smooth form. When maximized, the structure becomes much more dramatic and sculptural, although too much deformation can make the geometry unstable or difficult to construct. This process showed me how important it is to balance aesthetics, constructability, and parametric control when designing architectural structures.