What are the principal advantages of creating a conceptual design model using masses before diving into the detailed design and building element modeling?
Creating a conceptual design model using masses allows designers to focus on the overall form, proportions, and spatial relationships before getting into detailed elements. This approach helps quickly visualize and test different design ideas, ensuring the basic layout aligns with project goals. It also allows for early analysis, such as sun path studies or space optimization, without the complexity of detailed modeling. Starting with masses saves time and helps avoid unnecessary revisions later in the process.
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?
Not all buildings need to be modeled first using conceptual masses. Conceptual masses are most appropriate for large, complex projects where form, spatial relationships, and early analysis, such as energy or site studies, are critical. For smaller projects, like a single-family house, a conceptual mass may not be necessary, as the design can often proceed directly to detailed modeling. Using masses for small-scale designs could add unnecessary steps, making it less efficient. Instead, conceptual masses are better suited for projects that require extensive planning and exploration of overall structure and layout.
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.
How would you abstract the essential form of these famous buildings using conceptual mass elements that you can create in Revit?
- One World Trade Center: https://www.archdaily.com/795277/one-world-trade-center-som
- CMG Headquarters: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CMG_Headquarters#/media/File:China_Central_Television_Headquarters_2.jpg
- Twisting torso: https://www.archdaily.com/771471/santiago-calatravas-turning-torso-wins-ctbuhs-10-year-award
- Apple campus: https://www.archdaily.com/804970/apple-campus-2-held-to-fantastical-standard-of-detail-new-report-reveals
- Salesforce tower: https://www.archdaily.com/889519/salesforce-tower-pelli-clarke-pelli-architects