Module 6 - Points to Ponder

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

Should all buildings be modeled first using conceptual masses?

Not all buildings need to be moduled first using conceptual masses. Conceptual masses are usually reserved for larger buildings where a zoomed out picture is more important first before dealing with details. In smaller houses on the other hand, detail is important especially when it is client specific. These smaller details for the house defines the broader scope. While in bigger project, a conceptual mass can define programs and details that comes later

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?

Zaha hadid’s work was most likely developed by exploring the form first using conceptual masses as her work deals with relatively complex and unique geometries that wouldn’t be possible without first defining the mass.

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