Air Studio Journal Part B FInal Submission

DESIGN STUDIOAIR MAR.2013

TAM ON ON 551318

1.0 Case for Innovation 1.1 Introduction...................................................................05 1.2 Architecture As Discourse....................................... 15 1.3 Computational Architecture........................................27 1.4 Parametric Modelling...............................................41 1.5 Algorithmic Explorations..............................................53 1.6 Conclusion & Learning Outcomes..........................57

2.0 Design Approach 2.1 Design Focus..................................................................61 2.2 Case Study 1.0............................................................ 69 2.3 Case Study 2.0...............................................................79 2.4 Technique: Development..........................................87 2.5 Technique: Prototypes.................................................93 2.6 Technique Proposal ................................................115 2.7 Algorithmic Sketches ..................................................119 2.8 Learning Objectives & Outcomes .........................123

CONTENT

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1.0 Case for Innovation

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1.1

INTRODUCTION

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Hello there,My name is On On Tam.My major is architecture and I’m currently in my second year second semester. I come from a lovely city Macau in China. There are old Portugal buildings around and it is beautiful. Macau is known as the “Asian Les Vegas“ therefore there are lots of big casinos and hotels in recent years. But most of them are very formal and regular. As I knew, the local architecture fi rms are mostly using 3ds Max, Maya and SketchUp for 3D simulation.

My knowledge of digital architecture is mostly come from the subject Virtual Environments. Once I read a news about 3D printing tech-nology, I am impressed. It said a man’s cheek is seriously damaged and had a hole after surgery. His cheek bone and tongue are re-vealed. The doctors then used computing technology to set a metal frame inside his month and printed him a skin that can stick to the frame by magnet force. So the man has his normal life back and can hold a wedding with his wife. That was the fi rst time I knew the 3D printing has application in medical realm.

Something about me

INTRODUCTION

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Ground Floor Plan, Boat House First Floor Plan, Boat House

North, West, South, East Elevations, Boat House

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During Study in Melbourne University,I have taken 3 studios in the past semesters which are the Virtual Environments, Architecture Studio: Water and Site Tectonic.

The studio water taught me to analyze and apply the master architect-Rem Koolhass’s design principles and rules in designing a boathouse at the Yarra Park. As I am not skillful with digital tools. I presented the plans ,sections and elevation in two dimensions at the end of the course.

PREVIOUS WORK

Roof Floor Plan, Boat House

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Site Model, Site Tectonic

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In the subject Site Tectonic, it taught a lot interesting ideas about shaping the site for construction and landscape design. Throughout the course, digital techniques were as a tool to manipulate the landscape in simulation. 3ds Max, AutoCad and Rhino were introduced.

PREVIOUS WORK

Contour Plan, Site Tectonic

Site Section, Site Tectonic

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Prototype, Virtual Environments

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The Virtual Environments is my fi rst in touch with a digital tool-Rhino. At fi rst I needed to analysis a natural process and abstracted a basic form from it. Then with the help of Rhino, My lantern design was fi nished. The use of Rhino in the Virtual Environments and Site Tectonic are quite different. One concerns the form and pattern while the others is mak-ing a site model and shaping it. But both are helpful in fabrication. Like fabricated the lantern in paper and a site model in card board.

PREVIOUS WORK

Prototype, Virtual Environments

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1.2

ARCHITECTURE AS DISCOURSE

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An architectural project is an investment And architect is like an investment advisorFiguring the best choice out for the clients

To every client, he/she has different expectation and desire to an investment. Some want a low risk and medium reward investment while some want high reward whatever how

risky it will be. Effi cient portfolio is ‘[a] portfolio that provides the greatest expected re-turn for a given level of risk, or equivalently, the lowest risk for a given expected return, also called optimal portfolio.’1 There is always an effi cient portfolio for every client. What an in-vestment advisor responsible is to fi gure out the effi cient portfolio or the one most similar to.

As an architect, he/she are always fi nding the best choice for every project. Each project is unique by site condition, limited budget and needs of the patron, etc. A best choice is the result of balancing different aspects to meet the patron’s require-ments. Here, the best choice means more than referring to the optimum design of the building. As it is always consisted of a lot compromising issues, sometimes the op-timum design is not fi t enough for making the best choice. Therefore, a good archi-tecture is not only about the brilliant design, but also expresses the patron’s fulfi llment to the architect. Fortunately, under certain constraints, there are still lots of spectacu-lar architectures on the planet. It shows architecture has its own social identity and is

a valuable investment.

‘[Architecture] exists because a client allows it to exist’2

‘Architecture can scarcely exist without patronage’3

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The effi cient portfolio is a set of architectural solutions in Mother Nature

In our society, people are always saying effi ciency. To an investor, effi ciency is making the

most money in the shortest time; To a student, effi ciency is learning the most in the shortest

time. Time is always a parameter for effi ciency. So, there are questions raised out: what is effi -

ciency in architecture? How can architect fi nish the optimum design in relatively short time?

A form fi nder? A form maker? Or a form maker in the form giving environments?Space, structure and form are important architectural concepts. In the architectural

history, architects have been investigating these concepts with different principles.

The common one is designing complex forms. Time consumption on creation is mas-

sive even with help of computing. However, in our nature, there are lots of spectacu-

lar forms existed. Every single element in the earth, including we people, is surviving

after a long time challenges in evolution process. ” The perfection and variety of

natural forms is the result of the relentless experimentation of evolution”4 .As the natu-

ral forms have already been tested and designed for thousand years, million years

or even longer, if it is used as the origin in the design process, designers can save at

least a thousand year time. Therefore, my proposition is architect should get inspira-

tion from the nature as a basis for investigating architectural solutions because it is

time effi ciency and helps approaching to the optimum design.


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Modernism- Organic Architecture

‘All perfectly beautiful forms must be composed of curves; Since there is hardly any common natural form in which it is possible to discover a straight line’5

-John Ruskin

Organic architecture is the expression of passion for life and nature. It concerns the biological forms and processes in the nature. ‘Emphasizing beauty and harmony, its free-fl owing curves and expressive forms are sympathetic to the human body, mind and spirit. In a well designed organic build-ing, we feel better and freer.’6

HighDesert House,Kendrick Bangs Kellogg,California,2004 8

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‘Organic architecture should constantly remind us not to take mother nature for granted –work with her and allow her to guide your life. Inhibit her, and humanity will be the loser.’7

-Kendrick Bangs Kellogg

Something about Kendrick Bangs KelloggKellogg Falls in love with designing with nature since he is impressed by Frank Lloyd Wright’s Falling Water. Kellogg likes to invent forms to meet different requirements of each project, instead of using conventional forms and structure. He exploded the use of concrete to create the house on the hillock, a diffi cult site. He thinks every site is a challenge to what is ordinary. He also thinks organic architecture should empha-size the potential and environmental fulfi llment of individual experiences. 8

‘Form and Function are one’High Desert House, California, 2004By Kendrick Bangs Kellogg

In the Califonia’s Mojace desert, the High Dessert House sits on a large rock outcrop. The house is consisted of columns with gently curved canopy roofs on top, sitting on a platform. The spaces between these canopies is glass to bring the sunlight into the house. The house is earthquake proof and those columns with roof are part of the passive solar heating and cooling system. During the day the concrete columns ab-sorb the solar heat and keep the house cold inside while at night the heat radiates into the house and make the house warm in the cold desert. On the top view of the house, it looks like a prehistoric bird rising out of the hot desert landscape. The color, texture and the form of the house are consistent with the surrounding environments. 8

‘[T]here are no rules in organic architecture—it develops a new style every time you employ it’-Ken Kellogg

Architectural Solutions‘Form and function are one’ is a brilliant application in the High Desert House. The innovative columns are the structural members. The arrangement of columns and its roof are unconventionally for purposes. The column design is the solution to this spe-cifi c site condition. The High Desert House provides a comfort living environment for the patron with organic form.


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Something about Tokin Liu‘Using lessons in nature to inspire pioneering construction techniques. Our preoc-cupation with nature informs the design process, whether through biomimicry or by using the elements nature generously gives us for free.’-Tokin Liu

A Biomimetic Building‘The Island of Light’- Kaohsiung Port and Cruise Service CenterTokin Liu, Taiwan

The aim of this public architecture is to connect the culture and nature The architecture mainly comprises of two parts:

1.An inclined base containing all the operational accommodation as the form of hill

2.A lightweight roof canopy in the form of a forest of tree-like columns, which pro-vides shading.

The design approach is to provide a comfortable conditions rationally for the users in a low energy way.

Illustration ,‘The Island of Light’ 9

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How to create a comfortable environment?1.Additional cooling can be circulated through the structure, by using high-effi cien-cy heat exchanger, to avoid the use of air-conditioner.

2.In order to tolerate various climate conditions, the canopies of tree structure are using the shell lace system of perforated steel sheet.

3.The tree structures are covering of ETFE pillows that can block the sun, wind and rain. 4.Natural ventilation by using rooftop wind –catchers and vents coupled with low-level vents, to ensure the fl ow of fresh air through the space. 5.Light up the tree-like structure ,by luminaires within, at night to create a glowing symbol.

6.The roof harvests rainwater to provide the majority of the building’s water needs

It is a biomimetic approach to emphasizing functional demands and combines these with richly cultural backgrounds to the natural environments of Taiwan. 11



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Two architects are both using nature elements and concerning about individual experiences. The Island of Light engages to the ecosystem and creates a sustain-able environment through new materials and technologies. Use natural form and process in designing is saving materials and resources that is effi ciency and environ-mental-friendly . It also allows innovative and creative thinking and inspires archi-tectural solution to fi x problems. So inspiring from the nature is an effi cient way in architecture. In addition, natural form is encouraging people break the conven-tional thinking and explore in the nature, focus on the practicality and functionality, combing with nature beauty. It is easier to convince patrons to take the risk and accept an unique design.


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Engagement with nature is benefi cial to the Gateway Project in the design approach:Firstly, the gateway project is looking for innovative design to represent welcoming for Wynham city, giving visitors a memorable impression. It will indirectly result in a good impact on Wynham city’s economy. As mentioned before, the effi cient portfolio in ar-chitecture is relating to nature. Therefore, the effi cient portfolio for the gateway proj-ect should also relates to the nature. Secondly,the gateway project requires an eye-catching design. Through those precedents, it shows architects get unexpected design ideas from nature and it always accompanies with natural beauty. I personally believe that engaging with nature can totally fulfi ll the Gateway Project with a stunning design.

However, there is a concern about using natural elements.As know, the structure of natural forms and process are very complex.In architecture, do the architects be capable to investigate and design the organic substances? Is it possible to be build in the real world?



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NoteReference

1. Campbell R. Harvey, 'Effi cient portfolio', Campbell R. Harvey's Hypertextual Finance Glossary, (2011),

<http://people.duke.edu/~charvey/Classes/wpg/bfglose.htm> [accessed 1 April 2013]

2. Richard Williams, 'Architecture and Visual Culture', in Exploring Visual Culture : Defi nitions, Concepts, Con-

texts, ed. by Matthew Rampley (Edinburgh: Edinburgh University Press, 2005), pp. 107

3. Richard Williams, 'Architecture and Visual Culture', in Exploring Visual Culture : Defi nitions, Concepts, Con-

texts, ed. by Matthew Rampley (Edinburgh: Edinburgh University Press, 2005), pp. 107

4. Tsui, Eugene (1999). Evolutionary Architecture (New York: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.) pp.10

5. Pearson, David (2001). New Organic Architecture: The Breaking Wave (London: Gaia Books Limited) pp.29



8. Hess, Alan & Weintraub, Alan (2006). Organic Architecture: The Other Modernism (Utah: Gibbs Smith, Pub-

lisher) pp.255-269

9. Tonkin Liu, (2011) <http://www.tonkinliu.co.uk/ [accessed 1 April 2013]

10. Tonkin Liu, (2011) <http://www.tonkinliu.co.uk/practice/profi le/> [accessed 1 April 2013]

11. Pawlyn, Michael (2011). Biomimicry in Architecture (London: RIBA) pp.110

Feuerstein, Gunther(2002). Biomorphic Architecture (Londonn: Edition Axel Menges)

Gans, Deborah & Kuz, Zehra (2003). The Organic Approach To Architecture (England: Wiley-Academy, a divi-

sion of John Wiley & Sons Ltd).

Tsui, Eugene (1999). Evolutionary Architecture (New York: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.)

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1.3

COMPUTATIONAL ARCHITECTURE

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Computational architecture It’s time for dreams coming true It’s time for perfection approachesIt’s time for breakthrough in architecture

The trend from form making to form fi ndingThe investigation of a structure externally to internally While architects are improving architectural design, good helper is brought out

No matter form making, form fi nding or any other design methods, a good design costs more than one day. Computing in architecture, as a tool, does save people a lot time in processing a project. But more importantly, computing perfects architec-ture future development.

When architects eager to develop fl uid dynamic forms and prepare to discard static forms, computing allows them to simulate conceptual ideas in 3 dimensions environ-ment. One may say within human creativity and imagination, hand drawings are still workable. However, digital tools help architects chasing after multiple solutions to a design rather than one. Then they can pick a best-fi t design from multiple optimum design solutions.

Convention design method: Searching the solution space for the solution to a problemNew design method: Searching a solution to the problem 1

A concept-algorithm is introduced in the design analysis. The defi nition of Algorithm is “made up a fi nite set of rules or operations that are unambiguous and simple to fol-low”2 .In a simple way, its function here is to apply rational boundary constraints(like site conditions & orientation, etc.) to restrict the possible design outcomes. So the architects can fi nd out different solutions effi ciently.

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Genetic Algorithms Ecamples14

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An effi cient technique- Genetic Algorithms

‘Genetic algorithms are a class of highly parallel, evolutionary, adaptive search procedures…They are described as highly parallel because they search using populations of potential solutions rather than searching randomly or adjusting a single potential solution.’3

Among kinds of algorithms, I found the genetic algorithms is interesting. It is related to investigate DNA structure at the fi rst place. DNA structure varies through gene crossover and mutation and that will cause changes biological growth and form. But more importantly, this algorithms is benefi cial and effi cient. As using it to search for solutions, instead of searching randomly, it will search for potential solutions out of a specifi c population.

Those fi gures besides is about an experiment. People were using genetic algo-rithms to select and develop successful solutions that may susses to create artifi cial life . Those fi gures are showing the possible structure may exist. Directly show the solutions.

With great power comes with great responsibility By using the genetic algorithms, the genetic model of nature can be applied for architectural form. This new resource of forms indeed provides architects more inspirations. To analysis the external and internal of a biological structure, cer-tain study and knowledge is needed. Ever since there are new knowledge or technology in other professional realms, there are always have infl uences on architecture,like computing. Computing has contribution in architecture and its related professions, the role of architects is heavier and more complex.


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Beijing National Aquatics5


Water Cube-Beijing National AquaticsPTW architects,Peking China,2008

The exciting factor about the Water Cube design is the structure of the building. It is the structure of assuming the form of water bubble’s molecular structure is in a continues array. Every bubbles of the building is various and the building skin is made of infl ated ETFE cushions. The building is so massive and innovative that preparation before construction is complicated.

This precedent can totally refl ect how computing has great contribution in archi-tecture and fabrication. First of all, without computing technology the molecular structure will not be able to apply. It shows the biological model is suitable for applying in architectural form. Moreover, nowadays architects are sure to use a specifi c forms, they are seeking for the solution instead of thinking how to make it workable. Secondly, because it is a big scale building and every bubbles struc-ture is various, the design of structural steel beam has about 22000 variations. In order to determine the design method, people use software to bring from 22000 down to 3 sets of choice. Moreover, the structural analysis and design were written respectively in the Visual Basic 6.0 and Strand 7 Finite Element Software. To allow process documentations, all fi les were translated into 3D cad model. It only took 25 minutes to fi nish. It is hard to imagine doing fi le translation of every single structure members manually which in total at least 22000 steel beams.5

Computing helps a project from design to construction. It makes design concepts harder and the process easier. It also means details are basically all done in com-puter. Ever since there is unclear things about at site construction, people can just print out a part drawings from the 3D model for guideline.

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Beijing National Aquatics5

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ICD Research Pavilion

ICD/ ITKE Research Pavilion ICD/ ITKE University of Stuttgart, Germany,August 2011

The pavilion is a temporary, bionic research pavilion that made of wood. The proj-ect investigated the biological principles of the sea urchin’s plate skeleton mor-phology to be transferred as architectural form, by using computer-based design, simulation methods and computer-controlled manufacturing methods. On the basis of the complex geometries of the sea urchin and computer-based analysis, they found a new lightweight potential principle- 3 plate edges always meet together at just one point. Even the considerable size pavilion was only built with thin sheets of plywood which is only 6.5mm.6

With the success of this research, it shows the way of designers thinking is changed. In this project, there are architects and engineers. The origin of the project was started at explored the bionic principles and further developed until construction fi nished. Architects and engineers work together to control every detail in the proj-ect.

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Once again, with the success of this project, it shows the use of natural forms have contribution in architecture, no matter in architectural design or structural design. The natural forms and structures are precise because it may be humanly impossible to create. In this project, the researchers used computer-controlled methods to manu-facture the plates which the pavilion is constructed of. With this technique, construct a building is like buying furniture from Ikea. With clear guide, people can construct one by themselves. It is amazing that computing give a great power to architects and engineers to control the outcome directly. Also, it ensures the accuracy of the outcome and manufactures new forms in the built world.

To conclude, computing in architecture creates a new platform of designing and brings it to the real world. It gives hope for people to fi nd a solution rationally, to build the impossibly-built building. As the gateway project is looking for innovative design, computing is benefi cial to the gateway project and potentially brings out a legend-ary design.

Concern of computing architectureComputing has global infl uences. Designing methods, material use and manufac-turing have tendency to globalization. It is wondered in the future, will architecture become mass production ?

ICD Research Pavilion

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NoteReference

1. Yehuda E. Kalay, Architecture's New Media : Principles, Theories, and Methods of Computer-Aided Design

(Cambridge, Mass.: MIT Press, 2004), pp. 19-20

2. Defi nition of "algorithm" in Wilson, Robert A. and Frank C. Keil eds(1999) in The Mit Encyclopedia of Cognitive

Science (London: The MIT Press) pp.11-12

3. Frazer, John (1995). An Evolutionary Architecture (London: Architectural Association) pp.58 &98

4. Kolarevic, Branko, Architecture in the Digital Age: Design and Manufacturing (New York; London: Spon

Press, 2003), pp. 3 – 62

5.’Beijing National Aquatics Center’, 1-12 <http://bim.arch.gatech.edu/app/download.asp?path=/data/

partners/498&fi le=beijing.pdf> [accessed 1 April 2013]

6. ArchDaily, "ICD | ITKE Research Pavilion 2011 / ICD / ITKE University of Stuttgart", (18 Jan 2012), <<http://

www.archdaily.com/200685>/> [accessed 1 April 2013]

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1.4

PARAMETRIC MODELLING

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Parametric Modelling to architecture: Liberation or Stranglehold

Parametric modeling is a digital process that is described by a fi nite set of param-eters. The parametric scripting Grasshopper is written for convenience in comput-ing. Every time there are variations of the parametric model, the related parame-ters will be self-adjusted. The parametric scripting makes points have connectivity and relationships between them. That results in an architectural framework in the design process.

In my concerns, one of the advantages of parametric modeling is through the digital fabrication and manufacturing techniques, architects are engaging with the physical environment, rather than only in visual simulation. A parametric mod-el, is not only the blueprint of the design, but also the blueprint of fabrication. So before preparing the documents for fabrication, designers allow to have numer-ous experiments with the design. It means the parameters of the model is assisting the fabrication process. It also means the construction process is also associated with the act of making architecture. When the relationship of designers and outcomes are closer, aes-thetics and user experience are concerned. In a parametric model, fabrication details are determined, including structure and materials. The digital design pro-cess is precise and accurate so that the construction time and cost of the project can be estimated quite easily. Due to capitalism, clients have infl uences on the fi nal outcome of the design work. So, parametric modeling has its negative im-pact on designing. 1

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However, parametric model has mathematical attributes. It can transfer the complex geometry to simple geometric level for easier study and observation. It is benefi cial for explore like internal biological structure. Also, parametric model is good for create very smooth and dynamic forms. Therefore, parametric modeling is also changing the way of architects thinking as mentioned before. And it is a positive impacts on designing.

To conclude, there are paradoxes in the contribution of parametric modeling. Although it is good for creative thinking in designing process, design creativity may be strangled due to capitalism. And it may also lead to mass production in architecture because it may reduce the cost of building. With the prevalence of digital fabrication, in the future the cost may be more reasonable for budgeting and custom production may be prevalent too.

In addition, the disadvantage of parametric modeling is the architects need to be skillful at using the software. Without understanding the principles behind of software, digital tools become a restriction on designing. Despite software are tried to be user friendly, the programmers do not have as much as examination or experience as the real users.

The following two percednets are very interesting designs. It shows despite capi-talism has negeative impact on creative design, still there are convincing archi-tectural designs to make patrons willing to invest an unique architecture because architecture has different levels of value to everyone. To the gareway project, the design has signifi cant meaning to the Wynham city. Parametric modeling as a tool is a wise option in contribute to the natural exploration for the gateway dsign.

PARAMETRIC MODELLING

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Nordpark Cable Railways, Zaha Hadid, Innsbruck, Austria,2004-2007

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PARAMATRIC MODELLING

DESIGN STUDIO AIRBuildings with no capacity to change can only become slums or ancient monuments2

Friendly Alien-Kun Sthau

Peter Cook & Colin Fournier, Graz, Austria, 2003


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Nordpark Cable RailwaysZaha Hadid, Innsbruck, Austria,2004-2007

The building is comprised of four new stations and a cable-stayed suspension bridge.Use the fl uid language of natural ice formations and two contrasting elements “Shell & Shadow” generate each station’s spatial quality and describes the movement and circulation within the building, as the natural process is abstracted and de-scribed by architectural language. Use the fl uid language-ice formations enables the shell structures to adjust to various parameters whilst maintaining a coherent formal logic; New production methods guaranteed a very precise and automatic transla-tion of the computer generated design into the built structure;3

Friendly Alien-Kun SthauPeter Cook & Colin Fournier, Graz, Austria, 2003

The Kun Sthaus is located in the historical neighborhood, the new biomorphic design seems symbolic for transformation from tradition to future architecture. The biomorph construction maximize the span distance up to 60 meters in width, just like a fl oating bubble of air. Its outer skin is a media facade which can be changed electronically.BIX is a matrix of 930 fl uorescent lamps integrated into the eastern Plexiglas facade of the Kunsthaus. Films and animations can be displayed on the building skin. Thus the original architectural concept of the skin was radically redefi ned transforming the facade into a "communicative display skin".The Kun Sthaus facade as a display con-stitutes an extraordinary medium for presenting art and related informations. 4

Parametric architecture is believed to be the mainstream in the future. From these two precedents, we see different differences from the traditional buildings. The Friendly Alien is strongly contrasted to the surrounding built environments. From regu-lar form to nowadays fl uid and smooth form, architecture is also in the process of evolution.

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Friendly Alien-Kun SthauPeter Cook & Colin Fournier, Graz, Austria, 2003


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NoteReference

1.Anderson, Jonathon and Ming Tang (2011) Form follows parameters: Paramatric modeling for fabrication

and manufacturing processes, Proceedings of the 16th International Conference on Computer Aided Archi-

tectural Design Research in Asia / The University of Newcastle, Australia 27-29 April 2011, pp. 91-100 <<http://

cumincad.scix.net/cgi-bin/works/Show?caadria2011_009>>

2.Zaha Hadid Architects, 'Nordpark Cable Railway', ‘Arcspace.com’, (2008), <http://www.arcspace.com/fea-

tures/zaha-hadid-architects/nordpark-cable-railway/> [accessed 1 April 2013]

3.Spacelab Cook-Fournier, 'Kunsthaus Graz', ‘Arcspace.com’,(2004), <http://www.arcspace.com/features/

spacelab-cook-fournier/kunsthaus-graz/> [accessed 1 April 2013]

4.Cook Robotham Architectural Bureau,'Kunsthaus Graz', ‘CRAB-studio’, <http://www.crab-studio.com/graz-

kunsthaus/> [accessed 1 April 2013]

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1.5

ALGORITHMIC EXPLORATIONS

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Algorithmic Explorations Explorations with the Grasshopper, I usually start with watching the online videos and follow it to do

once and mark notes. Beyond that, I will try to use Grasshopper to do some easy commends in Rhino

which I knew before. But it is so much harder in Grasshopper, like extrude the curve. In Grasshopper, I

like to play with the number slider because it always show me some surprising and complex forms. Like

the fi gures shown here. Sometimes, it shapes the size, or sometimes the size and structure will change

together. After 4 weeks exploratons in Grasshopper, I found the most important thing is to understand

the commends and the principles behind.

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ALGORITHMIC EXPLORATIONS

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1.6

CONCLUSION

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ConclusionIn summary, architecture can treat as a business. In the business world effi ciency is

important. In architecture, effi ciency is also existed. Therefore, I proposed the design

approach of the gateway project should have interaction with the nature because

the application of nature is effi cient with natural beauty. It will bring out architectural

solutions to fulfi ll the gateway project. Also, with the help of digital tools,like parametric

modelling and computing, it will also benefi cial to the gateway project in seeking for

innovative design with computer-controlled fabrication, ensure the outcome of the

gateway is fully satisfi ed.

Learning OutcomesArchitectural computing is not only a technique, it linked to many other realms and

make it complicated. As a technique, it is a outcome of scientifi c application. It is not

hard to understand because it is rational and bases on principles. As digital architec-

ture is popular recently. As a student, understand the principles and the use of software

is part of the architectural study, that can realize and know what is going on in the ar-

chitecture. After fi nished doing all these researches and explored in the Grasshopper,I

have a clear idea of the importance and functionality of digital technology. If I could

redo my previous studios, the design approach needed to be more rational and con-

vincing. Also, the representation drawings could do better in order to draw a clear

illustration for others to understand the design.

CONCLUSION & LEARNING OUTCOMES

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2.0 Design Approach

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2.1

DESIGN FOCUS

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VOLTADOM-SKYLAR TIBBITS

ZA11 Pavilion-CLJO2

CANOPY-CADILLAC,ETAL.

ICD RESEARCH PAVILION-ICD

CENTER FOR IDEAS-MINIFIE VAN SCHAIK

FALLEN STAR-AA DLAB

SPANISH PAVILION- FOA

MORNING LINE-RITCHIE,ARANDA/LASCH & ARUP AGU

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- Benefits from use of parametric design techniques that geometry generation and fabrication are under fully controlled

-Exploring the formation rules found in nature in order to devise an architectural installation

-Structure & material effi ciency approached by application of biological structure

-To create dynamic spatial experiences challenging perception and temporality.

-Architectural attraction

-Interaction with users

-Simulation & refl ection of nature in built environments

Learning From Precedents

DESIGN FOCUS

DESIGN STUDIO AIRMind Map

Background of Wyndham City-Goals of Future Development: Growth, Diversity & Change -Local Community Full of Enthusiasm About Art & Gathering

Site Attributes -Rural Area: Natural Resources & Reservation -Built Environment: Highway-Traffi c Flow & High Speed Movement

Representation In Wave Form

Rural Environment Protection

Architecture’s Impact on Environment

Interaction Between Human & Nature

Progressive

Biomimicry:Nature As A Solution

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Gate Way Design Project-Innovation & Iconic -Long Distribution-Arrival Experience -Relationship Between Sculpture & Landscape

Fitness Criteria -Interruption : An Act of Delaying Or Interrupting The Continuity-Tendency: Expression Of High Speed & Movement-Fluid: Unique Characteristic Of Natural Form-Impression: Memorable Visual Experience

Material Decay

t

Proposed Site LocationThe way to Wyndham City

Site-A

Gateway As A Living Creature

DESIGN FOCUS

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NOTES

Reference

1. Thyssen-Bornemisza Art Contemporary,’Matthew Ritchie with Aranda/Lasch and Arup AGU-The Morning Line’,’TBA21’,< http://www.tba21.org/augarten_activities/49?category=archive&locale=de>[accessed 8 April 2013]2. Archdaily, ‘Ceramica Cumella:Shaping Ideas’,’archdaily.com’<http://www.archdaily.com/279576/ceramica-cumella-shaping-ideas/>>[accessed 8 April 2013]3. SJET,’Voltadom: MIT 2011’,’sjet.us’< http://www.sjet.us/MIT_VOLTADOM.html >>[accessed 8 April 2013]4. Design Playgrounds,’Canopy by United Visual Artists’,’designplaygrounds.com’<http://designplaygrounds.com/deviants/canopy-by-by-united-visual-artists/>>[accessed 8 April 2013]

5. ‘Sucker Punch,’Fallen Star@AA DLAB’,’suckerpunchdaily.com’<http://www.suckerpunchdaily.com/2012/08/16/fallen-star-aa-dlab/>>[accessed 8 April 2013]6. Minifi e Van Schaik Architects,’Center For Ideas’, ‘mvsarchitects.com’,< http://www.mvsarchitects.com.au/doku.php?id=home:projects:victorian_college_of_the_arts>>[accessed 8 April 2013]

7. De Zeen Magazine, ‘ICD/ITE Research Pavilion at the University of Stuttgart ’’dezeen.com’<http://www.dezeen.com/2011/10/31/icditke-research-pavilion-at-the-university-of-stuttgart/>>[accessed 8 April 2013]

8. Design Playgrounds, ‘CLJ02:ZA11 Pavilion’,’desginplaygrounds.com’< http://designplaygrounds.com/deviants/clj02-za11-pavilion/ >[accessed 8 April 2013]

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2.2

CASE STUDY 1.0

DESIGN STUDIO AIR

Fitness Criteria -Interruption : An Act of Delaying Or Interrupting The Continuity-Tendency: Expression Of High Speed & Movement-Fluid : Unique Characteristic Of Natural Form-Impression: Memorable Visual Experience

71

SPANISH PAVILION

PROJECT Spanish PavilionLOCATION Nagoya, JapanARCHITECT FOAYEAR 2005

-Lattice consisted of six different pieces, based on an orthogonal grid, and encoded with a color

-Lattice a traditional architectural element in Spain that refl ect the fusion btw Christian and Islamic architecture

-Recovery of the traditional ceramic lattice from Mediterranean architecture in order to achieve traditional spaces and shadow in the building

-Fabrication processes – extruding, casting, pressing and revolving -The idea of creating a ceramic facade symbolizes the Spanish approach to Japan.

-6 colours of tiles are the variation of the red and yellow of the national fl ag, refl ecting the colors of wine, roses, and the blood of the bullfi ghts, sun and sand. Colors univer-sally associated with Spain

Spanish Pavilion - An Interesting Parametric Precedent As Start-ing Point

The lattice consisted of 6 different tiles and based in a hexagonal grid. It also produces a continuously varying pattern of geometry and color. Moreover, the colorful ceramic tiles attract people’s attention easily and as a symbol in associated with the culture of Spain. The characteristics of this building are related to our group’s fi tness criteria. Therefore, this project is so meaningful that will be helpful in the fi rst exploration in Grasshopper, also in forming the parametric approach for the Gateway project.

CASE STUDY 1.0

DESIGN STUDIO AIRTe

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Variable 1 Variable 2 Variable 3 Variable 4

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Variable 5 Variable 6 Variable 7

CASE STUDY 1.0

DESIGN STUDIO AIR

Variable 1 Variable 2 Variable 3 Variable 4

Tech

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Variable 5 Variable 6 Variable 7

CASE STUDY 1.0

DESIGN STUDIO AIR11

2 3

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Matrix- Similarity & Contrast

Linear Changes

-Techniques 1-5:Series of changes in lattice

-Techniques 6:Changes in height and density

Meshes

-Techniques 7-9:Contrast the hexagonal foundation grid and height, sharpness and smoothness

Interruption Tendency Fluid Impression

1234

Outcome (4-the highest; 1- the lowest)

1

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Final Version- Outcome 4-Regularity v.s. Irregularity : Hexagon v.s. Smooth Extrusion -Extrusion looks like bubble-Its distribution & height satisfi es interruption & tendency-Although hexagon is not fl uid, it is a natural form

Architectural Application:May be applicable as shading panel and decorative building skin

CASE STUDY 1.0

DESIGN STUDIO AIR

2.0 Design Approach

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2.3

CASE STUDY 2.0

DESIGN STUDIO AIR

PROJECT Portrait BuildingLOCATION Old Carlton Brewery Site, Melbourne, VIC, AustraliaARCHITECT ARMDEVELOPER GroconYEAR 2010

-New development on the site of the old Carlton Brewery

-The building’s facade is the face of indigenous leader and artist William Barak

-As symbolic representation of Melbourne’s indigenous culture and history

-The image of William Barak a homage to the First Australians, and recognition of the complementary history.

-Intention to pay respect to both Barak and the Wurundjeri people as the traditional owners of Melbourne and the greater Melbourne region over many thousands of years

-A strong and lasting contribution to the site and the city.

81

PROJECT De Young MuseumLOCATION Golden Gate Park,San Francisco, USAARCHITECT Herzog & de Meuron YEAR 1895

-The abstract texture of a forest canopy was created from high-contrast digital images and then mapped onto the building surfaces

-The entire exterior is clad in 163,118 sq ft of copper, which is expected to eventually oxidize and take on a greenish tone and a distinct texture to echo the nearby eucalyp-tus trees

-Beyond momentary fl uctuations in light and atmosphere, the cladding has also be-gun registering long-term effects of time and the elements—turning the copper brown, black, and eventually, green

-The architects wanted a material that would be sensitive to and actually express the fact of change, also intentionally attacked the metal to exploit its inherent tendencies

-The mature patina, which may take a decade to develop, will not acquire a uniform Statue of Liberty cast, but multiple shades of green dappled with browns and black that blend with the surrounding trees

-In exposing the forces of nature as a key player, the architects not only defer to the beauty of the site but also respond to the history of the de Young and the long-stand-ing controversy over the museum’s presence

CASE STUDY 2.0

Patina

DESIGN STUDIO AIR

83

Reversed Engineering Study

-By combing two projects’ grasshopper defi nitions, there are variables and effects shown in the digital model. The variables are the radius & height of circles and the im-age. In the fi nal outcomes, the changes become regular as the diagrams shown.

Similarity & Differences To The Original Projects

Similarity:-Dramatic changes associate with the image itself-Circles in different sizes & heights set on the surface Differences:A thorough look at every circle, it becomes a cone

Development of the technique-To judge the outcomes of this technique with the four fi tness criteria in case study 1.0.

Quality Achieved:-Tendency: By using the image sampler, the change is under controlled to create desir-able trend. -Fluid: Circular geometry

Quality Not Achieved:-Interruption & Impression:In the next step of developing the technique, qualities of interruption and impression should be brought in. A stronger stereoscopic outcome may help to strengthen these.

CASE STUDY 2.0

DESIGN STUDIO AIR

85

NOTES

REFERENCE

1. Arch Record, ’De Young Museum’,’archrecord.construction.com’<http://archre-cord.construction.com/projects/portfolio/archives/0511deYoung.asp>>[accessed 8 April 2013]

2. Urban Art Project,’Portrait Building’,’urbanartprojects.wordpress.com’< http://ur-banartprojects.wordpress.com/2010/09/16/portrait-building-arm-architects/>>[accessed 8 April 2013]

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2.4

TECHNIQUE: DEVELOPMENT

DESIGN STUDIO AIRTe

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Variable 1 Variable 2 Variable 3 Variable 4 Variable 5

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Variable 6 Variable 7 Variable 8 Variable 9 Variable 10


DESIGN STUDIO AIR

Base Geometry

Final Version

91

Case Study 2.0 Technique Morph Box


DESIGN STUDIO AIR

2.0 Design Approach

93

2.5

TECHNIQUE: PROTOTYPES

DESIGN STUDIO AIR

95

MATERIALISATION RELATED TO BIOMIMICRY

Relationship Between Gateway Project & Biomimicry :-Gateway as a living creature

Expression As A Metaphor: -Photosynthesis occurs in chloroplasts

Why Photosynthesis is essential to the Gateway Design-Photosynthesis produce oxygen-which is important to all living creatures in the world-Symbolize the importance of Wyndham City by rela ng to the fundamental and important natural process-Photosynthesis Material Representation of Photosynthesis:-Visual eff ects created by material to let people realize the changes in nature

-The facade is made out of stainless steel panels that are perforated with about 10,000 round holes

-The presence of daylight: The facade won’t block out all light but fi lters and distributes it through various translucent materials inside the space: polycarbonate, colored resin, exclusively developed porous-transparent polyurethane panels etc.

- A range of infi ll materials for apertures in the stainless steel skin

-Ultra clear glass plugs, 32mm thick clear, low-iron glass that is fl ush to the interior face of the plate and projects externally

PROJECT Prada TowerLOCATION San Francisco, USAARCHITECT OMAYEAR 2000

Learning From Precedent


DESIGN STUDIO AIR

97

Material Experiment- Lighting experiments on glasses

Precedent-The striking colors & bold simplicity of the project welcoming vistors into the neighbour-hood

SummaryThe experiment and precedent show material- glass can refl ect colorful light on the other object. In the gateway project, colorful lights will be benefi cial in connecting with the nature in site and attract people’s attention.

Proposed Use Of Material To Represent Photosynthesis:

-Concept:During photosynthesis, green light from the sun is mainly rejected,therefore, most of the vegeta on are always green.

-Applica on: When sunlight projects on the gateway, the infi ll glass material will refl ect green color to the driveway, as a metaphor that photosynthesis is occurring and diff erent light refl ec on can also indicate the levels of photosynthesis according to the sunlight in diff erent periods in one day


DESIGN STUDIO AIR

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Unroll Digital Model For Fabrication

In order to unroll our digital model successfully, we found the unroll script from ACADIA 2011 design competition. The winner lantern is similar to our digital model, consisted of circular geometry. In the fi gure beside, we can see the joint connection which have 4 small joints in one object


DESIGN STUDIO AIR

101


Failure In Fabricate Prototype

After we succeeded unrolling the model, we started making the prototype with cardboard. Due to lack of supporting structure in our digital model, the fabrica-tion was diffi cult. We cut the unroll strip and stuck it to be a cone with glue. As there were no connection between cones, we need to use pin to plug holes and transparent plastic thread connecting them into bunches. Each brunches con-tains 50 objects. But after we made about 6 brunches, we found they were too soft to be supported.

DESIGN STUDIO AIRFigures Of The Easy Version Model & Unroll Strips

103


Second Fabrication As the structural problem was not solved yet, we decide to fabricate a smaller physi-cal model, which deduced the UV values, to illustrate the effect created by our original parametric model for this stage.

DESIGN STUDIO AIR

Physical Model

105


DESIGN STUDIO AIR

PROJECT Rmit Design HubLOCATION Melbourne, AustraliaARCHITECT SGAYEAR 2012

-The connection of the metal plate

Construction Detail-Learning Precedents

107


PROJECT National Botanic Garden of WalesLOCATION Carmarthenshire,Wales,UKARCHITECT Samuel Pepys CockerellYEAR 2000

-The massive scale of span and ground connection

DESIGN STUDIO AIR

Detailed Models

109


DESIGN STUDIO AIR

Span Structure-Front View

Span Structure-Plan View

Detail Drawings & Model

Metal (ExternalLayer)

GreenGlass(InternalLayer

Joint between Metal

111

Connec on between the circular elements

Underground Connec on

r)


DESIGN STUDIO AIR

113

NOTES

REFERENCE

1. OMA,’Prada’s West Coast Epicenter’,’oma.eu’<http://oma.eu/projects/2000/pra-da-san-francisco>>[accessed 8 April 2013]

2. World of Color Awards,’”Papa” The Striking Colors & Bold Simplicity of This Project Welcome Visitors nto the Neighborhood’,’worldofcolorawards.com’< http://worldofcol-orawards.com/category/color-forecasting >>[accessed 8 April 2013]3. Sean Godesll Architects,’RMIT Design Hub’,’seangodsell.com’<http://www.sean-godsell.com/rmit-design-hub>>[accessed 8 April 2013]

4. Grasshopper, ‘Acadia 2011 Lightning Competition Winner1/2’,’grasshopper3d.com’<http://www.grasshopper3d.com/photo/saunders-fc-light-webboard-01?commentId=2985220%3AComment%3A570243&xg_source=activity>>[accessed 8 April 2013]

5. Habitables,’Great Glasshouse National Botanic Garden of Wales-FOoster+Partners’,’habitables.co.uk’< http://www.habitables.co.uk/architecture/great-glasshouse-national-botanic-garden-of-wales-foster-partners >>[accessed 8 April 2013]

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2.6

TECHNIQUE PROPOSAL

DESIGN STUDIO AIR

Non-Achievements In Grasshopper Technique -Cones are all separated to each other and have no stable structure

Solution In Later Development

-Create sub-structure or improve the technique to make the cones have intersection or connection

117

TECHNIQUE PROPOSAL

Fulfi llment To Gateway Design

-Satisfy fi tness criteria: Interruption, Tendency, Fluid Shape and Impression

-In a big scale that the design will be across site A&C

-The sunlight will not be fully blocked because many holes remained on cones even the design is similar to a tunnel.

-Use of color to connect the people, site and nature

DESIGN STUDIO AIR

2.0 Design Approach

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2.7

ALGORITHMIC SKETCHES

DESIGN STUDIO AIR

121

ALGORITHMIC SKETCHES

DESIGN STUDIO AIR

2.0 Design Approach

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2.8

CONCLUSION

DESIGN STUDIO AIR

Feedback-Lack of design logic-Incomplete and unclear design concepts-Fail to represent and connect photosynthesis to the gateway design and others-Weak grasshopper technique that fail to fabricate the physical model

Proposed Improvement-Rethinking geometry and photosynthesis in order to form a more convincing parametric approach-Better use of geometry,material(especially in light refl ection) & solar panels to present the idea of photosynthesis-Rational form generation & redo the digital model

Proposed Geometry, Use Of Color & Form Generation

125

LEARNING OBJECTIVES & OUTCOMES

BUT-Still lack of direct effect in gateway design that people will not re-alize the message of photosynthesis and connection to the nature

For the next stage, Our group will use photosynthesis as starting point, research more about natural process in vegetation and material decay, to investigate how to connect the natural changes to the people and gateway. Also, architecture’s impacts on environment too.

Documents

Air Studio Journal Part B FInal Submission