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?

Building with masses allow the designer to design quickly and creatively with less constraints. Being able to place masses and create interesting shapes rapidly seems to match the speed our minds may be operating. Creating a conceptual design using masses as well allows for many varying designs to be workshopped and presented to the client for the same space, which allows for early decision making before too much work has been done on any one design.

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?

A good example of a building that might have been created by exploring the form using conceptual mass models would be the Torre Glòries in Barcelona, Spain (first picture) or the Evolution Tower (Russia - second picture).