studio:airarchitecture design

Keli Murray 5179128

: contentsarchitecture as a discourse 04

computing in architecture 12

parametric modelling 19

group research + case study 00

: architecture as a discourse

: architecture as a discourse

Hi, I’m Keli, 22 years old and I’m a third year Architecture student. This is my second year at

Melboure University as I transferred from Monash. I grew up on the Mornington Peninsula but have lived

in Melbourne for the past 2 years. I’m interested in design and making jewellery, particularly

with the use of laser cutters. I have a very basic knowledge of Rhino and various CAD

programs, but my expierence with digital architecture is very limited. I do wish to learn

Rhino and Grasshopper well, though I do find it a bit daunting, particularly Grasshopper.

This is a project from one of my previous studios in which our task was explore

architectural geometry thtrough digital means. By combining archimedian solids in 3D

modelling I was able to create a seamless physical model through the use of laser

cutters, from what was a purely conceptual computational design.

EAMES HOUSEray & charles eames

I find the Eames house, built in 1945, interesting particularly because of the idea

of prefabrication. Built with the intention to create a house using prefabricated materials that would not interfere with the natural site, be easy to construct

and showcasing the modernist style. I believe this house achieves that through it’s simplicity in design. I like the idea of

designing from a ‘kit of parts‘ rather than having a design then figuring out what

materials are required to achieve that. I also think their idea of prefabrication off site was

very pioneering. Although I don’t particularly like the modern/minimalist style of the

house because it can be quite cold and unhomely, this idea of an ‘IKEA’ like house was very forward thinking of them at their time as I think architecture is headed in a

prefabricated direction.

image sources:http://www.archdaily.com/66302/ad-classics-eames-house-charles-and-ray-eames/http://www.greatbuildings.com/buildings/Eames_House.html

NATURAL HISTORY MUESUMalfred waterhouse (london)

I find the Natural History Muesum in London, built between 1860 & 1880, particularly

inspiring because of the intricate details used throughout. Built in German Romanesque

style, the architect, Waterhouse commented on this building in particular saying, ‘to clothe over practical necessities with such beauty as they were capable of receiving.’ I think his intention

was to not just build a practical building, but to completely ‘dress‘ the building with delicate and intriacte details as to simply create a truly

beautiful building. By envoking the the German Romanesque revival style, Waterhouse achieves

this through his use of the dramatic arches, towers and heavy detailing. I like his idea of not

wanting to create a purely practical building, which was probably all that was being built in London during the time, but rather him trying

to create a really beautiful building just simply because he could.

image sources:http://www.greatbuildings.com/buildings/Museum_of_Natural_History.htmlhttp://www.nhm.ac.uk/visit-us/history-architecture/

: computing in architecture

ARCHITECTURE’S NEW MEDIAbenefits of using computers in the design in the design process

Design is a process in which we engage in activities that are aimed at achieving pre-defined goals with a specific set of conditions.As architecture moved away from the traditional ‘master-

builder’ construction method towards a ‘planned’ process, new ways of communication needed to be developed for an architect to demonstrate their vision. Drawings and scale models

were used to communicate these ideas with builders and clients, but also as a means of experimentation to produce alternative design ideas. This also allowed more people to become

involved and visualise the building during the design proccess.

The use of computers in architectural design is an extension of this and has many benefits in the design process. Ultimately is allows for fast and effective communication of ideas visually

through drawings, renderings and 3D modelling. As the design process is on-going and often includes a combination of problem solving and puzzle making, and solutions are constantly

being evaluated, often specific aspects of the design or constraints need to be changed. Computers allow for changes and revisions to be made much faster. Computers also allow

for complex geometires and ideas to be explored that would not otherwise be possible due to the limitations of our imagination. This aspect alone has benefited architecture in the way we

construct and explore structure, materials not possible without the use of computers.

Projects such as the BMW Welt by COOP HIMMELB(L)AU in Munich, Germany demonstrates the benefits of computer aided design. This projects explores the complex geometry of a

changing cloud and translates that into architecture.

ARCHITECTURE’S NEW MEDIAbenefits of using computers in the design in the design process

Design is a process in which we engage in activities that are aimed at achieving pre-defined goals with a specific set of conditions.As architecture moved away from the traditional ‘master-

builder’ construction method towards a ‘planned’ process, new ways of communication needed to be developed for an architect to demonstrate their vision. Drawings and scale models

were used to communicate these ideas with builders and clients, but also as a means of experimentation to produce alternative design ideas. This also allowed more people to become

involved and visualise the building during the design proccess.

The use of computers in architectural design is an extension of this and has many benefits in the design process. Ultimately is allows for fast and effective communication of ideas visually

through drawings, renderings and 3D modelling. As the design process is on-going and often includes a combination of problem solving and puzzle making, and solutions are constantly

being evaluated, often specific aspects of the design or constraints need to be changed. Computers allow for changes and revisions to be made much faster. Computers also allow

for complex geometires and ideas to be explored that would not otherwise be possible due to the limitations of our imagination. This aspect alone has benefited architecture in the way we

construct and explore structure, materials not possible without the use of computers.

Projects such as the BMW Welt by COOP HIMMELB(L)AU in Munich, Germany demonstrates the benefits of computer aided design. This projects explores the complex geometry of a

changing cloud and translates that into architecture.

ARCHITECTURE IN THE DIGITAL AGEThe use of computer-aided design has opened architecture up to way of designing in a

non-conventional way. New forms and shapes can be explored in a way that was previously unimaginable, and from that the representation and construction of the design can be more

complex and direct because the information can be extracted, manipulated, exchanged and utlized much easier and quicker.

Within computational architecture a range of discourses have been developed, including ‘Performance Architecture’. Performance architecture uses building performance as a guiding

design principle and focuses on the performance of abuilding over form-making. This concept of design broadly looks at the financial, social, spacial and technical aspects when designing.

It’s as though the building is a shell for activities and experiences, and is shaped by it’s use. The building is then understood by the effect it has on those experiencing it. This concept

is enhanced through the use of digital means as the performance of the building can be analysedand altered to achieve it’s optimal performance.

The Yamaha Ginza building by Nikken Sekkei architects in Tokyo, Japan explore performance architecture as they try to express the essence of Yamaha’s brand through this building. They

wanted to design a building that ‘exudes the feel of sound and music’. They achieved this by calling upon the concept image of a woodwind instrument in a glass case, using it as a

theme for the building. The facade aims to reflect the rythmn and change in music. Internally the building is very acoustically complex as it aims to accomodate a hall, shops and music

teaching rooms.

ARCHITECTURE IN THE DIGITAL AGEThe use of computer-aided design has opened architecture up to way of designing in a

non-conventional way. New forms and shapes can be explored in a way that was previously unimaginable, and from that the representation and construction of the design can be more

complex and direct because the information can be extracted, manipulated, exchanged and utlized much easier and quicker.

Within computational architecture a range of discourses have been developed, including ‘Performance Architecture’. Performance architecture uses building performance as a guiding

design principle and focuses on the performance of abuilding over form-making. This concept of design broadly looks at the financial, social, spacial and technical aspects when designing.

It’s as though the building is a shell for activities and experiences, and is shaped by it’s use. The building is then understood by the effect it has on those experiencing it. This concept

is enhanced through the use of digital means as the performance of the building can be analysedand altered to achieve it’s optimal performance.

The Yamaha Ginza building by Nikken Sekkei architects in Tokyo, Japan explore performance architecture as they try to express the essence of Yamaha’s brand through this building. They

wanted to design a building that ‘exudes the feel of sound and music’. They achieved this by calling upon the concept image of a woodwind instrument in a glass case, using it as a

theme for the building. The facade aims to reflect the rythmn and change in music. Internally the building is very acoustically complex as it aims to accomodate a hall, shops and music

teaching rooms.

ARCHITECTURE IN THE DIGITAL AGEThe use of computer-aided design has opened architecture up to way of designing in a

non-conventional way. New forms and shapes can be explored in a way that was previously unimaginable, and from that the representation and construction of the design can be more

complex and direct because the information can be extracted, manipulated, exchanged and utlized much easier and quicker.

Within computational architecture a range of discourses have been developed, including ‘Performance Architecture’. Performance architecture uses building performance as a guiding

design principle and focuses on the performance of abuilding over form-making. This concept of design broadly looks at the financial, social, spacial and technical aspects when designing.

It’s as though the building is a shell for activities and experiences, and is shaped by it’s use. The building is then understood by the effect it has on those experiencing it. This concept

is enhanced through the use of digital means as the performance of the building can be analysedand altered to achieve it’s optimal performance.

The Yamaha Ginza building by Nikken Sekkei architects in Tokyo, Japan explore performance architecture as they try to express the essence of Yamaha’s brand through this building. They

wanted to design a building that ‘exudes the feel of sound and music’. They achieved this by calling upon the concept image of a woodwind instrument in a glass case, using it as a

theme for the building. The facade aims to reflect the rythmn and change in music. Internally the building is very acoustically complex as it aims to accomodate a hall, shops and music

teaching rooms.

ARCHITECTURE IN THE DIGITAL AGEThe use of computer-aided design has opened architecture up to way of designing in a

non-conventional way. New forms and shapes can be explored in a way that was previously unimaginable, and from that the representation and construction of the design can be more

complex and direct because the information can be extracted, manipulated, exchanged and utlized much easier and quicker.

Within computational architecture a range of discourses have been developed, including ‘Performance Architecture’. Performance architecture uses building performance as a guiding

design principle and focuses on the performance of abuilding over form-making. This concept of design broadly looks at the financial, social, spacial and technical aspects when designing.

It’s as though the building is a shell for activities and experiences, and is shaped by it’s use. The building is then understood by the effect it has on those experiencing it. This concept

is enhanced through the use of digital means as the performance of the building can be analysedand altered to achieve it’s optimal performance.

The Yamaha Ginza building by Nikken Sekkei architects in Tokyo, Japan explore performance architecture as they try to express the essence of Yamaha’s brand through this building. They

wanted to design a building that ‘exudes the feel of sound and music’. They achieved this by calling upon the concept image of a woodwind instrument in a glass case, using it as a

theme for the building. The facade aims to reflect the rythmn and change in music. Internally the building is very acoustically complex as it aims to accomodate a hall, shops and music

teaching rooms.

: parametric modelling

PARAMETRIC MODELLING Parametric architecture involves the process of designing based

on raltionships and rulesusing the computer. Through the use of parametric software objects are easily manipulated to quickly

generate multiples and form complex free form shapes. Parametric modelling works un-like conventional modelling, in which the whole

design is modelled as a whole. Parametric design works bottom-up where the relationship of the individual elements work together to

create the overall design.There are many advantages to parametric modelling, mainly that it

allows for development and change throughout the design process, making it a generative and reactive process as you are able to

change and rework designs quickly and effectively. Though working from the bottom-up approach, as you do

parametrically has it’s benefits it also has its disadvantages. Whilst working on a system rather than the whole design itself, the logic

behind the design may be lost if it is not looked at holistically.

: group research + case study

Summary of Parametric Design Journey

So far we have explored parametric design through studying projects, built and non-built, as well as beginning to understand the basics

through Rhino + Grasshopper trutorials. I have found the idea of parametric design

quite a hard concept to grasp, but after looking at more examples of other people’s

work it has expanded my understanding of it. Through the tutorials and case studies I have

begun to realise the benefits of parametric design and particularly the ease at which

you are able to make changes to the design. As we started to research our chosen area

of perception and play around with the case studies I have become more interested

in parametric design as I didn’t quite understand the potential of using this from of

design up until now.

GROUP ARGUMENT

As a group we are intested in pursuing ‘perception’ as a starting point to our expression of interest within the Wyndham Gateway Project. We think perception and illusion are relevant to the project because there will be a moving privileged point of view, making it interactive and a memorable architectural experience. Even though the structure can be static through the use of different parametric design techniques it can become visually and physically dynamic, through shadows, perception. Perception and illusion do not necessarily exclude the use of passively responsive design, which could react to stimuli from the environment or the cars themselves. Our key focus would be to create a structure that portrays a message that is reflective of the Wyndham community.

GROUP ARGUMENT

As a group we are intested in pursuing ‘perception’ as a starting point to our expression of interest within the Wyndham Gateway Project. We think perception and illusion are relevant to the project because there will be a moving privileged point of view, making it interactive and a memorable architectural experience. Even though the structure can be static through the use of different parametric design techniques it can become visually and physically dynamic, through shadows, perception. Perception and illusion do not necessarily exclude the use of passively responsive design, which could react to stimuli from the environment or the cars themselves. Our key focus would be to create a structure that portrays a message that is reflective of the Wyndham community.

RESEARCHFAULDERS STUDIO DESIGN PROPOSAL FOR MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART, LUTHER BURBANK CENTER

This project was a submission for the museums new building that was adjacent to the freeway, allowing the

facade to act as a visual icon for the museum. The design plays on driver’s perspective as the text, colour and images

are made visible from certain views. The facade plays on the unique geometry of the stacked tubes as they are

sculpted ot create varying surface depths, allowing for certain images to be made visible only from certain view

points. Designed parametrically it allowed for effective placing of the tubes, and accurate testing from specific

points to see the exposed images. This project specifically relates to ours as it combines parametric design, perception and is also a freeway project. We are particularly interested

in the revealing of the images and text as you move through the project, allowing the specific messages to be displayed

as we aim to do, which reacts with the fluid movement of the cars.

image sources:http://www.faulders-studio.com/proj_moca.html#

RESEARCHFERMID BY BEHNAZ BABAZADEH

This project is a sculpture based on kinetics, which explores the relationship between between movement and space. Through

the use of technology and parametric design principles the artist was able to create a piece that mimics movement based on that of living organisms. The scuplture reacts to movement

around it making it seem like a living, breathing object. Though this project is based on kinetics rather than perception, as

a group we decided we would like to pursue the idea of ‘perception evolving from reaction’. This project inspired us to combine both perception and reactive parametric design as we would like to explore the idea of specific messages being

revealed as a result of movement from cars passing on the freeway.

The project can not be fully explained just using pictures. Here’s a link to the video!

http://vimeo.com/23731090

image sources:http://www.triangulationblog.com/2011/05/fermid-by-behnaz-babazadeh.html

CASE STUDYMcCormick Tribune Campus Center

Grasshopper Definitions

Using the grasshopper definitions as a starting point we looked at manipulating

it in a way that relates our chosen area of perception.

Firstly we changed the design by refrencing in cylinders and cubes rather than the basic

2D images used in the McCormick design.

We then changed the height of the cylinders and cubes so the would create a sort of ‘pin-

board’ when the image was overlayed.

We then referenced in basic jpeg images of trees and clouds the images were created not from shading, but rather the positioning

of cylinder or cube on the z-axis.

CASE STUDYMcCormick Tribune Campus Center

Grasshopper Definitions

Using the grasshopper definitions as a starting point we looked at manipulating

it in a way that relates our chosen area of perception.

Firstly we changed the design by refrencing in cylinders and cubes rather than the basic

2D images used in the McCormick design.

We then changed the height of the cylinders and cubes so the would create a sort of ‘pin-

board’ when the image was overlayed.

We then referenced in basic jpeg images of trees and clouds the images were created not from shading, but rather the positioning

of cylinder or cube on the z-axis.