CFI_635300_BiancaChristensen

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EXPRESSION OF INTEREST JOURNAL

STUDIO AIR

BIANCA CHRISTENSEN 635300TUTORS: MIKE + ZAC

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EXPRESSION OF INTERESTCASE FOR INNOVATION 1A.1 ARCHITECTURE AS A DISCOURSE 3

A.2 COMPUTATIONAL ARCHITECTURE 9

A.3 PARAMETRIC MODELLING 13

A.4 COMPUTATIONAL ARCHITECTURE 19

A.5 CONCLUSION 21

A.6 LEARNING OUTCOMES 22

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INTRODUCTION

BIANCA CHRISTENSENCurrently I am in my final year of the Bachelor of Environments, majoring in Architecture. I have just trans-ferred to the University of Melbourne from Queensland University of Technology where I grew up on the sunny Gold Coast. It was here that I was first introduced to digital architectural theory and tools, such as AutoCAD, Revit, Sketch up and so on. Last year, within studio, I began to explore the program Blender. This was utilized as a tool to explore four dimensional diagramming and experimentation using parameters (such as pedestrian traffic) and particle simulations to generate a building form. Precedent work that was examined, emulated and interrogated was the various approaches used by Greg Lynn, Zaha Hadid, Ali Rahim and Ross Lovegrove.

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PARTa

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CASE FOR INNOVATION

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

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PART A: CASE FOR INNOVATION

ARCHITECTURE AS A DISCOURSEA.1

architecture as cultural investment

There is no simple answer to the question ‘what is architecture?’, yet it appears to be a constant battle by authors, critics, artists, architects (and the list goes on) to define it. It could be sug-gested that architecture is purely a building to provide shelter... However, this would suggest little ambiguity and defining it wouldn’t be a problem. Thus, it could be suggested that this difficulty could stem from the idea that ‘archi-tecture is as much a philosophical, social or professional realm as it is a material one’1

The literature that all these ideas and opinions encompass, contribute to the ongoing conver-sations and debates that is: Architecture as a Discourse.

Architectural discourse has largely been sur-rounded by the discourse of form and in particular style. This suggests that this large debate has been concentrated at a superfi-cial level and thus not exploring the deeper

1 Richard Williams, ‘Architecture and Visual Culture’, Exploring Visual Culture: Definitions, Concepts, Contexts. Edinburgh University Press, (2005), 102 - 116

meanings and concerns that architectural form can encompass.2

This ‘Case for Innovation’, is going to add to the disciplinary discourse of architecture by discussing the role of architecture as a cultural investment. In particular, the idea of governing bodies using public and cultural buildings as a way to increase cultural and social capital and in turn economic capital of buildings and even cities as a whole. This idea comes from the fol-lowing quote from the article “Architecture and Visual Culture” by Richard Williams:

An immense amount of spectacular new

architecture has been built in the past

two decades, a product of the desire on

the part of social and political authority

of update the public realm in the context

of unprecedented prosperity.3

2 Neil Leach, ‘Rethinking Architecture: A Reader in Cultural Theory’, Routledge (1997), xiii3 Williams, ‘Architecture and Visual Culture’ p. 102

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FIGURE #: FRANK GEHRY SKETCH OF THE GUGGENHEIM BILBAO

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THE GUGGENHEIM MUSEUM BILBAOFRANK GEHRY

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A.1 ARCHITECTURE AS A DISCOURSE

This sculptural like structure known as the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, was designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry. This project is the definition of architecture as a cultural investment.

The city of Bilbao, Spain, successfully achieved their goals through utilising this building as a means to restructure the former industrial site.1 The build-ing became a catalyst for the urban and economic regeneration of the entire city, which prior to open-ing the museum in 1997, was a cultural backwater.2

Gehry was determined to push the boundaries against his views of post-modernism and thus designed an architectural form that never appeared to be static. His concept was about fish and the way they appeared to be in constant motion when he drew them.3 He achieved this through utilising audacious curves and sculptural forms.

The building has been under constant critique of whether it was or wasn’t the reason of the social, cultural and economic growth that Bilbao exploded with once the museum opened its doors. However, numbers tend not to lie. Before the introduction the Guggenheim, the city had a small arts museum that attracted less than 100,000 visitors a year, very few being tourists.4 Whereas, the Guggenheim hosts around one million visitors per year, with the

1 Beatriz Plaza, ‘The Return on Investment of the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao’, International Journal of Urban and Regional Research, (2006) p 452.2 Phaidon, ‘Buildings that changed the world - The Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao’, http://au.phaidon.com/agenda/architecture/articles/2012/november/23/buildings-that-changed-the-world-the-guggenheim-museum-bilbao/ [accessed 04 April, 2013].3 Phaidon, ‘Buildings that changed the world - The Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao’.4 Beatriz Plaza, ‘The Return on Investment of the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao’, p. 453.

majority of visitors being international tourists.5

Due to the success of this project there has been many assumptions played out about using signa-ture architecture by architects such as; Frank Gehry, Norman Foster, Renzo Piano, Rem Koolhaas, Daniel Libeskind and Zaha Hadid, guarantee success-ful urban and economic regeneration, this being known as “The Bilbao Effect”.6 It can be argued that using signature architects, just by being them, will raise awareness of the projects initially - whether or not it is good or bad architecture.

5 ‘The Guggenheim Bilbao museum, art and avant-garde’ , (2013), http://www.spain.info/en/reportajes/museo_guggenheim_arte_y_vanguardia_en_bilbao.html [accessed 26 March, 2013]. 6 Beatriz Plaza, ‘The Return on Investment of the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao’, p. 453.

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LONDON AQUATICS CENTREZAHA HADID ARCHITECTS

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A.1 ARCHITECTURE AS A DISCOURSE

The above images represent the ‘wings’

that were only intended for the duration

of the games, whereas the image on the

opposite page shows the building in leg-

acy form.

Designed for the London 2012 Olympics, the London Aquatics Centre was designed to provide a legacy that would out-live the events entity and become a place for the public. In order to make this a viable out-come, Hadid designed the building to be able to be transformed. The building was to have it’s ‘wings clipped’, and replaced with glass facades, shedding 85 percent of the spectator seating used for the games.1

The concept behind the form was inspired by the ‘fluid geometry of water in motion, creating spaces and a surrounding environ-ment in sympathy with the river landscape of the Olympic Park’.2 The swooping roof, was generated by sight-lines for spectators for the duration of the Olympics.

As the Olympics were always going to draw great numbers of tourism to the area, the question arises if having signature architec-ture increased the interest generated during and post-games? It could be argued that it has, because not only was it a landmark in Olympic history, it was also designed by a renowned architect. This means that it has become a tourism destination through mul-tiple avenues whilst also becoming a place for the community to use. However, in terms of the success post-Olympics, further time is needed to analyse the site.

1 Architectural Record, ‘Aquatics Centre Zaha Hadid Architects’, (2012), 200(6), p. 1. 2 Zaha Hadid Architects, ‘London Aquatics Centre’, (2012), http://www.zaha-hadid.com/archi-tecture/london-aquatics-centre/ [accessed 29 March 2013]

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COMPUTATIONAL ARCHITECTUREA.2

COMPUTERIZATION VS. COMPUTATION

Currently the use of computers in design, is dominated by many utilising it as just a tool. Another way to represent drawings that were conceptualized by a designer and then entered, manipulated and stored on a computer sys-tem. 1 This is the idea known as ‘Computerization’. Although this process has had many benefits to the design and construction industry, it is the shift towards computation that will have the significant advantages.

Computation, is the idea that com-puters and software can be used in both the design and manufac-ture of the built environment.2 1 Kostas Terzidis, ‘Algorithmic Architecture’, Elsevier, (2006), p.xi 2 Jan Knippers, ‘From Model

However, Bryan Lawson suggests that ‘“CAD might conspire against creative thought{...}” by encourag-ing “fake” creativity’.3 Personally, I disagree with this idea. I believe that when computation is used correctly, it is a tool that can be uti-lised in making designers rethink the way they design through new constraints and exportations that could possibly increase creativity. Computation can help produce numerous outcomes that may not have been thought about. Possibly due to constraints such as time and a focus on the personal Thinking to Process Design’, Architectural Design, (2013), 83(2), p.77.3 Bryan Lawson, ‘Fake and Real Creativity using Computer Aided Design: Some Lessons from Herman Hertberger’, Proceedings of the 3rd Conference on Creativity and Cofnition, ACM Press, (1999), p. 174-197.

attachment a designer may have through the effort they have pur-sued. It is a new tool that can be utilised as part of the design pro-cess, a alternative approach to problem solving, which after all is the basis of all architectural explorations.

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10AN EXAMPLE

The above image is of the Computational Design Research Pavilion, designed by Achim Menges in 2010. It’s purpose was to design an innovative structure that demonstrated the latest developments within material-orientated design, simulation and production processes. The project utilises computation as a generation of form that directly responds to the physical behaviour and material characteristics. 1

1 EVolo, ‘Computational Design Research Pavilion’, ICD-ITKE, (2011), http://www.evolo.us/architecture/computational-design-research-pavilion-icd-itke/ [accessed 01 April 2013]

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THEMATIC PAVILLIONSOMA

The Thematic Pavilion in South Korea was designed by SOMA for the 2012 Expo in Yeosu. It was essen-tial for the building to become an iconic landmark that was fully integrated into the urban context and surrounding nature.1 As it was designed for the World Expo, 2012, it could be suggested that the design needed to generate more cultural and economic capital for the city of Yeosu. Thus, an innovative structure was required to capture people’s attention and in order to achieve this SOMA utilised computation in terms of design and fabrication.2

The idea behind this building was to use compu-tation to generate from but concentrating on the structural aspects. It was this aspect that allowed the buildings concept to be achieved. That con-cept being, to represent the endless surface to the ocean and it’s depth. And thus, the form plays with the horizontal and vertical, twisting them and let-ting the outer shell define the interiors.3

1 SOMA, ‘Thematic Pavilion EXPO 2012 Yeosu, South-Korea’, (2012), http://www.soma-architecture.com/index.php?page=thematic_pavilion&parent=2 [accessed 01 April 2013].2 Jan Knippers, ‘From Model Thinking to Process Design’, (2013), 83(2), p.77.3 SOMA, ‘Thematic Pavillion EXPO 2012 Yeosu, South-Korea’. (2012”.

Further to this, computation allowed the kinetic facade of this project to be possible. It is comprised of 114 louvres, that are up too 14 metres in length and are elastically deformed through compression and tension (to open and close the louvres). 1

1 Jan Knippers, ‘From Model Thinking to Process Design’, (2013), 83(2), p.76

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A.2 COMPUTATIONAL ARCHITECTURE

Above: the kinetic facade of the building, showing the open to close stages.

Above/middle: the kinetic facade slightly open.

Right: The way the fibre glass kinetic facade operates, through the use of ten-sion of open and close the lourves.

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PARAMETRIC MODELLINGA.3

One way designers can utilise computation, is through the use of parametric modelling. Not necessarily a new concept, parametric design is becoming more apparent in the built envi-ronment. One reason that this has occurred is due to the designer wanting more flex-ibility within computation. Thus allowing the designer to be able to make changes without the constant ‘re-do’ of deleting and/or redraw-ing to produce variations in designs.1

Parametric modelling encompasses so many different elements that it cannot be concep-tually defined as being a specific ‘thing’. When Daniel Davis gave his lecture in week three, he suggested that many people define para-metric modelling in a variety of ways, such as ‘parametric is change’ and ‘parametric is design’ and so on. These bold statements have 1 Carlos Roberto Barrios Hernandez, ‘Thinking parametric design: introducing parametric Gaudi’, Digital Design Studies, (2005), 27(3) p. 309-324.

all partial truths but are opinions and thus not an appropriate form of a definition. I agree with Davis’ idea of defining parametric mod-elling according to Weisstein’s mathematical definition:

set of equations that express a set of quantities as explicit functions of a number of independent variables known as ‘parameters’2

2 Eric Weisstein, ‘CRC Concise Encyclopaedia of Mathematics’ , Chapman & Hall/CRC

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The two images below are of the rope and weight tension/ compression models that Guadi used. Expressively showing that parametric design is not just a computa-tional tool,

Now, through the application of these parameters and furthermore algorithms, designers become the ‘programmer’ and have the ability to generate and control multiple outcomes with less effort. I believe that parametric design is currently a driving force for architecture and consequently to stay ‘relevant’ in the industry one must uti-lise this tool. Not just as a way to be able to possibly save time, but to also create the most innovate forms that operate suc-cessfully as a building. As it is currently at the forefront of technology in the industry these types of buildings are becoming the new ‘signature architecture’ that can be used as a cultural investment. These types of buildings also tend to develop the most controversy as most either love or loathe the designs. Yet, this controversy gener-ates more discussion and knowledge of the buildings.

It could suggested that parametric mod-elling increased cultural and economic attributes even before computers existed. An example of this, is Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia, where he used a physical model of rope and weights (the parametric aspect) to create form through tension and then reversing for the arches and vaults to work in compression. This cultural building has high volume of international and local visitors and as it is still in construction, will continue to be a generation of economic and cultural capital for the city.

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BURNHAM PAVILIONUNSTUDIO

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A.3 PARAMETRIC MODELLING

Parametric digital models, exploring the potential designs that could be generated.

The pavilion at night, showing the engagement with people and with the city beyond.

The Burnham Pavilion by UNStudio is an example of how parametric design can increase urban, cultural generation. This pavilion was designed to be an urban activator to encourage local and international visitors to the site, Millennium Park in Chicago. The purpose was to connect people with the site and each other through being able to explore within and around the project. 1

UNStudio placed a particular emphasis on the specifically of the site, exposing the relationship between the existing rigid geometry, whilst also introducing a floating and multidirectional space. The design originated with the orthogonal setup of

1 UNStudio, ‘Burnham Pavilion’, (2009), http://www.unstudio.com/projects/burnham-pavilion [accessed 30 March, 2013.]

the city and park grid, with the edges of the pavil-ion following this geometry. Through using cities geometry, the rigid grid and the diagonal streets, UNStudio utilised these as the parameters to be able to explore multiple potentials for the overall design. Whilst also creating fluidity through the form, with a geometry that may not have been oth-erwise explored.

The design that was chosen, frames views of the park and city in a specific way that aligns the parameters used.

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RIBBONS OPEN-AIR THEATREMAKOTO SEI WANTANBE

The Ribbons Open-Air Theatre was basically an ‘extension’ to an existing outdoor theatre in a city park in Taiwan. The idea was to pro-duce something noticeable and renowned in a way to regenerate the existing site.

Wantanbe, expresses that his wave-like rib-bons utilised algorithmic design, although no special software was developed for the project. He further suggests that the project is successful if the functions that are held within are expanded into the city and he believes that these ribbons are what allows this to happen1. Connecting the city and the-atre and making them one.

Through utilising algorithmic exploration, Wantanbe produce multiple versions using the same concept of ‘ribbons’ to generate the optimal result. I believe that if he had not

1 Philip Jodidio, ‘Ribbons Open-Air Theatre’, Public Architecture Now, Tachen (2010) p. 402-405.

utilised this tool, he would not have explored further and changed parameters in a way that completely changed the final result. Thus, the building may not have been as suc-cessful in his intention to connect the city and the theatre as one, whilst maintaining its own identity.

This is showing the relationship between design and the success of a building to gen-erate a higher cultural capital and in turn investment. Just like many of the other proj-ects explored, people when interested, will travel to see a building of innovation even if they may not be interested in what the built form encompasses inside (exhibitions and so on).

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A.3 PARAMETRIC MODELLING

Far Above: the three explorations of parametric design that Wantanbe explored.

Above: the built structure of the Ribbons Open Air Theatre and the way it connects to the city and engages cultural vitality.

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ALGORITHMIC EXPLORATIONSA.4

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Grasshopper is one program that allows us to explore algorithmic functions that allows design-ers to produce multiple solutions within minutes. The reason I have shown this image, even though it is one of the most simplistic definitions that can be done in Grasshopper, is due to the fact that it takes a matter of seconds. Three lofted examples, all completely different, however all began in the same form. Thus, best representing what algorithmic design can achieve.

The image represents just three potential outcomes, however, the possibilities are endless and potentially it makes me question - how do you know when best to stop the exploration? Could having this power of nearly infinite possibilities be a negative impact? However, I believe that parametric design for the use of the Gateway Project Competition, will be a great tool to explore multiple options for designs that will challenge people’s perceptions of to what innovative forms can be produced. Thus, generating that element of controversy to spark intrigue and become a ‘signature architecture’.

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CONCLUSIONA.5

It is becoming more and more evident that architecture is being employed to be utilised as a cultural investment. This is being seen in many public architecture projects, where governing bodies are employing the architecture to become one of the main reasons, never mind what the building actually holds, to draw in visitors and thus economic viability. The projects that were explored are evident that using this approach is becoming more successful, through using ‘signature architecture’.

At present this ‘signature architecture’ is parametric design. I believe that it has the highest potential to create innovative forms that produce quality architecture. It tends to generate much controversy, as many either will love or loathe the project, which will add to the cultural investment of the project itself.

As seen in the case studies, the potential for the projects to overlap each section is quite signifi-cant. And many of the topics could be explored in much greater detail.

In order for the Gateway Project Competition to be innovative, it needs to explore parameters of different ways to alter geometry of the form. The most optimal solution would be chosen once as many possibilities are tried and tested. From the case studies presented, an interesting form is vital in creating cultural and economic capital that will not only have its intended pur-pose, but to also have people want to go out of their way to visit the site out of pure intrigue.

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LEARNING OUTCOMESA.6

Since the beginning of this semester, my knowledge of the way computation differs from com-puterization has expanded immensely. The idea that being able to control the program through algorithmic exploration, is something that I had not thought about but makes perfect sense. Being able to manipulate to that extent produces much more of a creative process. Yes, you face new constraints, but this just adds to the test of your ability to problem solve. In past projects, I found I was very limited because I couldn’t quite test the ideas I had in my head on paper or through computerization and due to this I found my projects lacked innovation.

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PARTb

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DESIGN APPROACH

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

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PART B: EOI II: DESIGN APPROACH

DESIGN FOCUSB.1

GEOMETRY

The Wyndham City Council seeks to enhance the physical environment of the Western Interchange through the introduction of a visual arts component that will become the Western Gateway. It’s purpose is to encourage ongoing interest and reflection beyond first glance and thus have people return to the site1.

To achieve these desired outcomes, the group decided to focus our design approach through the use of geometry. Overall geometry begins to explore such elements as ruled surfaces, paraboloids, minimal surfaces, geodesics, relaxation and general form finding and also booleans. In their individual ways, each of these geometric explorations can allow for the optimization of structure, materials, performance and construction.

1 Wyndham City, ‘Western Gateway Design Project’. http://app.lms.unimelb.edu.au/bbcswebdav/pid-3815738-dt-content-rid-10327484_2/courseABPL30048_2012_SM1/Project/Project%20Document%20-%20COMMENTED.pdf

As a parametric approach, Grasshopper allows for the execution of these geometric explorations in a magnitude of variations. It also makes it possible to evaluate the buildability/ fabrication of forms without having to test solely on physical models and the use of mathematics. Thus, allowing to develop the most optimal form and increasing time efficiency for fabrication (even if a variety of models is being t ested).

For the Expression of Interest for the Western Gateway Design Project, geometry as a parametric approach will allow for the integration of visual art, design and structure. Thus, also allowing the incorporation of the teams discourse of Cultural Investment.

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Three such examples of architectural design/ installations that explore geometric aspirations through a parametric approach include Matsys’ Gridshell (2012), Lava’s Green Void (2008) and Skylar Tibbits’ VoltaDom (2007).

Each of these projects have achieved a similar overall goal. This being, optimising structure, material and/or efficiency while minimising waste and having a strong visual impact in terms of aesthetics.

Matsys’ Gridshell was produced at the 2012 Smart Geometry Conference during a ‘gridshell digital techtonics’ workshop. This project explored paramteric plug-ins that included Grasshopper, Kangaroo and Karamba. The intention of this workshop was to utilise these tools and intensley explore how the physical properties of materials (in this case timber laths) can be embedded within parametric design1.

Gridshell is a geometric example as it utilises geodesic curves. This not only creates a visually appealing design but expresses its structure through its skin. Thus, minimising waste and maximising it’s architectural presence in space. It also challenges the notion that timber can only be used for straight applications.

1 Smart Geometry 2012, ‘Sg 2012 Material Intensities - simulation, energy, environment’ - Gridshell Digital Tectonics. (2012). http://smartgeom-etry.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=134%3Agridshell-digital-tectonics&catid=44&Itemid=131

Geodesic geometry can be systematically broken down into each step and thus allows the designer to take control of variations and scalability in material, bending, multiple forms and compositions.1

1 Aaron Grey. ‘Gridshell Fabrication: Parametric Analysis’ (2011). http://www.aaron-grey.com/archives/560

IMAGE #: Matsys’ Gridshell - Final built outcome

IMAGE #: Matsys’ Gridshell - Rendered protoype, varies to final outcome as it has another lattice over the structure.

IMAGE # AND # SOURCED FROM http://matsysdesign.com/2012/04/13/sg2012-gridshell/

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As opposed to Gridshell, Green Void by LAVA considers geometry as minimal surface combined with geometry relaxation. This resulted in a form that can generate space out of a lightweight material that requires minimal adjustments onsite and can be installed within a short time frame1. This was only made possible through the use of parametric design according to LAVA.

Through utilising geometry such as minimal surface and parametric design and fabrication, 1 Baraona Pohl , Ethel. “Green Void / LAVA” 16 Dec 2008. ArchDaily. Accessed 12 May 2013. <http://www.archdaily.com/10233

LAVA was able to accomplish a new way of considering sustainable practice. This was in regards to optimal efficiency in material usage, construction weight, fabrication and installation time2. This further allowed LAVA to create maximum visual impact due to the sheer size, form and also colour. These principles in relation to parametric design, are what allow geometry to be a successful approach in achieving a set of goals such as LAVA expressed in this project.

2 Baraona Pohl , Ethel. “Green Void / LAVA” 16 Dec 2008. ArchDaily. Accessed 12 May 2013. <http://www.archdaily.com/10233

IMAGE #: Green Void / Lava IMAGE #: Green Void/ Lava from below looking into circle component at the bottom of the installation. Shows the material which is a 2-way stretch woven fabric.

IMAGE # AND # SOURCED FROM http://www.archdaily.com/10233/green-void-lava/

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B.1 DESIGN FOCUSSkylar Tibbits considered a different approach again to the idea of geometry in their formation of VoltaDom. It was an installation that occurred in the FAST Arts Festival of 2007, which as the name suggests required fabrication to be fast.

In terms of geometry, the form considers modular vaulted domes that are reminiscent of designs such as Gaudi’s. This was achieved through the use of paraboloid geometry tesselated to create a passageway.

The project has two very different views internally and externally. Creating appeal and interest beyond

first glance which is one of Wyndham City’s goals through this Gateway Project.

Again, the structure optimises space and minimises materials due to using parametric design to achieve developable surfaces from complex curves for ease in fabrication1. This possibly would not have been achieved without the use of parametric design tools.

The project is as much a research into materials and fabrication as it is a sculptural piece of art.

1 Grozdanic, L. ‘VoltaDom Installation/ Skylar Tibbits + SJET (2011). http://www.evolo.us/architecture/voltadom-installation-skylar-tibbits-sjet/

IMAGE #: VoltaDom/ Skylar Tibbits, internal view of vaulted domes.

IMAGE #: VoltaDom/ Skylar Tibbits, external view - creates intrique to what it could be - questions the ideas of is it just a sculpture., what is inside and so on.

IMAGE # AND # SOURCED FROM http://www.evolo.us/architecture/voltadom-installation-skylar-tibbits-sjet/

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CASE STUDY 1.0B.2

MATSYS GRIDSHELL

To begin the process, I simply started altering the numbers of integers and the numbers in the shift lits.

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To further understand the potential of parametric design, the definition of Matsys’ Gridshell was provided. This allowed for the exploration of how a definition can be altered in numerous ways, exploring multiple design iterations that could possibly lead to completely new outcomes.

Gridshell, as discussed in B.1 Design Focus, relies on geodesic curves to create its form over a relaxed surface for general form finding.

Geodesics are a fluid, intriquing geometric exploration that could possibly be used to create an interesting sculptural design that optimises efficiency. Using parametric design the engineering of geodesic curves is allowed to be considered and fabricated especially when using a material such as timber.

The following matrix will explore multiple iterations and different approaches to the geodesics and also to the form.

Continued altering the numbers of integers and the numbers in the

shift lits.

Added a third geodesic curve

To give the geodesic curves depth I first attempted to offset the curves and then join them. I hit a dead-end here and opted to use pipes to create the depth and give the Gridshell physical properties.The radius of these pipes was also altered.

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Same as above porcess however, explored multiple changes to number inputs and vary from flat-tened to non-flatterend.

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B.2 CASE STUDY 1.0

On the rebuilt curves, I applied a ‘populate 3D grid’ and then applied delanay edges, which resulted in the first outcome. I then decided to flatten this

component and achieved the iterations that follow. These give

a highly textured surface that completely alters to the original.

Applied a Voroni component to the rebuilt cureves

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B.2 CASE STUDY 1.0

The iterations to the left have had a extruded hexagonal grid applied to the surface of the form found by geodesic curves. Utilising a honeycomb would allow this shape to be develop-able in regards to the structural integrity of the hexagon shape.

The iterations to the left consider a facade type approach through the application of a range of off-seted circles with a point charge added to determine the radius of these points in regards to the proximity of the point charge

A tri-grid was applied to the surface which I then extruded to give the form depth. This approach would work in the instances where the grids are joined but more consideration would be needed in regards to the form finding.

The images above are of the basic original form with an extruded surface to create a depth and

were extruded along each axis to see the varations that could be

achieved.

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CASE STUDY 2.0B.3

REVERSE ENGINEER : CANTON TOWERDesigned by ‘Information Based Architecture (IBA)’, Canton Tower’s purpose was to challenge the idea of the ‘masculine’ skyscraper. This was achieved by designing a building that would be defined by smooth, slender, gracious forms that mimic the figure of a women1. Furthermore to this idea, IBA utilised geometry in a way that expresses structure as an intricate design, yet maintaining a simple overriding identity, thus allowing IBA to explore and produce new forms through parametric design tools. In particular, they wanted to utilise these tools to increase the ability for a greater degree of complexity and freedom2.

The overall form, volume and structure all relies on two ellipses, one at the top and one at the bottom. It is through the ‘twisting’ of these ellipses in relation to one another that allows for the resultant outcome, producing a ‘waist’ and desnsification for the building3.

This building was chosen as a precedence for our project as it also adds to the discourse of architecture as Cultural Investment. Even though not the direct client, Guangzhou Government wanted a building that would become a symbol that represents and rejuvenates the centre of Canton (a few centuries old). In addition to this, they believe that Canton has been successful in this and also in attracting international visitors to the area as Canton Tower is not only a TV tower but also allows for other activities such as sightseeing due to the iconic scale of the building4.

1DesignBoom, ‘information based architecture: canton tower’ (2011). http://www.design-boom.com/architecture/information-based-architecture-canton-tower/ 2DesignBoom, ‘information based architecture: canton tower’ (2011). http://www.design-boom.com/architecture/information-based-architecture-canton-tower/ 3 ”Canton Tower / Information Based Architecture” 19 Nov 2010. ArchDaily. Accessed 13 May 2013. <http://www.archdaily.com/89849> 4 ‘Canton Tower - Design’ “Canton Tower / Information Based Architecture” 19 Nov 2010. ArchDaily. Accessed 13 May 2013. <http://www.archdaily.com/89849>

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ABOVE:

IMAGE #: Canton Tower / IBA expressing the feminine form and sheer scale.

RIGHT:

IMAGE #: Canton Tower / IBA - Internal view of struc-ture expressing the inheritant structural qualities of the

IMAGE # AND # SOURCED FROM http://www.archdaily.com/89849/canton-tower-information-based-architecture/

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REVERSE ENGINEERING PROCESS

STEP 1: Create original form. Create two ellipses to create form

STEP 2: Generate Surface, which was chosen as a strip surface to allow for pattern to be applied

STEP 3: Create points on the strip surface with same distance and in this case allowed for rectangles to be formed at these points

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B.3 CASE STUDY 2.0

STEP 3: Create points on the strip surface with same distance and in this case allowed for rectangles to be formed at these points

STEP 4: Create big triangles as a pattern to represent the structure.

STEP 5: Create smaller triangles on the large triangle surface. Again to produce a pattern that represents a geometric form and aesthetic qualities.

This model became the groups starting point for the exploration of the design for the following technique development. However, I felt like this model did not represent the geometry of the original Canton Tower effectively. From here I took a step back and revisted this process.

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REVERSE ENGINEERING PROCESS

When I first considered the form, it reminded me of Matsys Gridshell. Therefore for my first attempt of re-creating Canton Tower I considered the use of Geodesics.

The definition that was created was basically the exact same as the definition for Gridshell. However, the curves were created to represent the form of the tower.

The first step used three curves, which I used ellipses to replicate the original - with a larger one being at the bottom, a small one at the waist and a top one rotated in relation to the bottom one.

These curves were then lofted together and the subdivided, arcs applied, rebuilt curves and then finally inputted into geodesics with shift lists applied.

Although the final outcome represented Canton Tower well, I didn’t believe it did the parametric model justice as it didn’t invlove twisting to create a waist and thus densification

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B.3 CASE STUDY 2.0

ABOVE:

Around Step 3 of the process, shows some similar ele-ments to the orginial Canton Tower.

RIGHT:

The resultant geodesic curves, shows how the itteration doesn’t ‘twist’ in the correct form and the diagonals do not cross in the same way as Canton Tower does

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The above diagram represents the process that IBA used to develop the form, I wanted to mimic this process in order to produce a similar result.

REVERSE ENGINEERING PROCESS - ORIGINAL

42

B.3 CASE STUDY 2.0

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REVERSE ENGINEERING PROCESS - OUTCOME

STEP 1 STEP 2 STEP 3 STEP 4A cylinder was created

through creating two circles

through grasshopper (one

at top and one at bottom).

This was lofted together and

the surface was subdivided

to produce the array of

circles along this surface.

Once this information had

been exploded to, the lines

connecting the top and

bottom were able to be

produced

The top circle was altered

to an ellipse to contour and

represent the tower more

correctly. This required

re-inputting ‘step one’

components to continue.

To the top ellipse a rotation

was applied to create the

‘waist’ through twisting. This

has produced a densification

that mimics more closely to

the original Canton Tower.

Each circle along the surface

(similar to the idea of a floor),

was given its own plane and

rotated through a vertical (z)

component. This allowed

for the circles to be angled

throughout. I also found

that each ‘circle’ had to be

connected to the one above

as I could not produce a

definition that continously

ran through each point.

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B.3 CASE STUDY 2.0

STEP 5 STEP 6

FINAL

To provide the cross

diagonal bracing, similar

to the previous step, I was

unable to have these lines

continuously running from

the top to bottom ellipses.

To provide the diagonal

component I used a shift list

with the integer 1 to produce

this.

To provide a third-dimension

which also considers the

built form, I applied pipes

along the structure, with the

main having a larger radius

compared to the diagonal

cross-bracing.

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REVERSE ENGINEERING FINAL OUTCOME

ABOVE:

IMAGE #: Photograph of Canton Tower / IBA taken from ground level looking straight up the tower

RIGHT:

A diagram of the resultant outcome of the reverse engineering process. Looking at a similar view as the above image

IMAGE # SOURCED FROM http://www.designboom.com/architecture/information-based-architecture-canton-tower/

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B.3 CASE STUDY 2.0

SIMILARITIES + DIFFERENCES

The definition created from the process of reverse engineering has

produced a very similar structure and form to that of the original

project. With the structure and twist being a prominent feature.

However, some differences that were noticed were the scale,

which could have possibly been fixed through widening the top

and bottom ellipses and through increasing the height of the

building. This would thus increase the structural members that

would be required and would make the model more realistic to

that of the original form. Also, as I was unable to allow the curves

to be continous (in regards to structural qualities) it thus lacks that

complete desired smooth form. Another difference noticed was

that the twist is in the opposite direction and also the arrayed circles

needing a depth and not to have a ‘floor’ appearance to them.

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TECHNIQUE DEVELOPMENTB.4

ALTERNATIVE ITERATIONS

The iterations above looked at brep meshes and alteration of curves and planes, whereas the iterations below look at circles being applied to the surface and then offset and then created into surfaces themselves. This would provide a different approach to the facade of the tower, where the simplicity of the structural form would be lost. Further development in these forms looked at how a point attractor would change the radius’ of the circles in a direct relation to a specific point rather than having to alter these individually perhaps if not using a parametric design software.

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TECHNIQUE DEVELOPMENTB.4

ALTERNATIVE ITERATIONS

Exploration of altering radius and properties of top ellipse. I Then looked at createing the structural properties on each surface in the same way. This manipulation was further developing the weaknesses in my reversed engineered definition. The images below give a birds eye-view of the tower looking at iterations in regards to circles polygons and so on.

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GROUP’S EXPLORATIONRETURN TO VOLTADOMAs VoltaDom by Skylar Tibbits was also explored during Case Study 1.0 through other group members, we believed that the idea of a geometric form produced onto a surface would allow for an interesting aesthetic outcome.

This idea was combined with the utilisation of the reversed engineered ‘Canton Tower’ of Part B.3. For this to be allowed we tried to use the model from Canton Tower (that was produced as a group in early stages) to create a sculptural tunnel ... that could possibly become part of this Gateway Project.

In the beginning it was decided to test the strip component that we had achieved in the reversed engineered project (explored in B.5) and cut in half and changed from a vertical axis to a horizontal one.

This idea was decided to be very simplistic and

not have much of a geometric expression in regards to structural optimization and so on. Thus, as a group we decided to explore a lofted surface between a curved form and a static linear curve. This created a an interesting wave like surface that we wanted to apply similar principles of VoltaDom. Meaning we wanted to apply Euclidean geometry to vary the surface and to create an interesting form with affects in light and shadow.

The images to the right represent a range of different geometries applied to the constructed surface. The triangle that we chose to proceed in developing was due to its interesting directional component, structural integrity and play with light and shadow.

I terat ions of Vol taD om when applied to a three dimensional surface.

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B.4 TECHNIQUE DEVELOPMENT

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GROUP’S EXPLORATIONCHOSEN ITERATION TO DEVELOP

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TECHNIQUE: PROTOTYPESB.5

MATERIALISATION + FABRICATION

This was the very first protype we created and tested.

Which was literally, the exploration of the strip surface we

created during Case Study 2.0 (but cut in half and made

into a tunnel).It was about exploring the idea of structural

optimisation and developable surfaces. It was just as much

this as it was an exploration of how to unroll surfaces

into rhino to develop a ‘pattern’ that could be sent to a

laser printer and thus created through two-dimensional

surfaces. As a structural component, the model has

potential however, the elements do not correlate to one

another and feel disjointed and not optimising structure

as effiently as it could be. It also lacks a geometric form

about it.

PROTOTYPE 1

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PROTOTYPE 2

This is the model that we produced to help us represent our final out come. It explores the idea of

triangles being tesselated over a surface, which helps to achieve the desired outcome of pattern,

iconic scale and a play with light and shadows. However, there were difficulties in developing

a two-dimensional output of the desired result which has resulted in this model. This model

explored a way to use digital fabrication of a two dimensional material. Thus, this lost the design

intent of the structure being not only a structure but also a sculpture in the sense of scale and

visual art. It was decided that this model actually was a injustice to the model as it had no sense

of th variations in triangles and the depth of each individual module. This model also lost the

sculptural surface that was developed as each triangle was an individual module.

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TECHNIQUE PROPOSALB.6

THE GROUPS PROPOSAL

BIRDSEYE VIEW

EXIT DETAIL

EXIT DETAILLOOKING SPECIFICALLY AT THE JAGGERED EDGES THAT JUXTAPOSE THE SMOOTH FORM THAT IS THE ENTRANCE OF THE TUNNEL

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SIDE VIEW

ENTRANCE VIEW THE ENTRANCE EXPRESSES THE SMOOTH FORM THAT JUXTAPOSES TO THE EXIT WHICH IS VERY APRUBT

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In the previous step of this project ... ‘Case for Innovation’ .... each group member explored a topic that

contributed to the discourse discussion of architecture. These topics included:

1. Architecture as consumption, production and thus a field of visual culture

2. Architecture is a philosophical, social and professional realm, not just a simple material one

3. Architecture as cultural investment

Through further discussion and analysis we decided to continue with the argument of ‘architecture as

cultural investment.

We chose to utilise geometry as our design focus (as stated in Part B.1) as it is an advantageous approach

for this freeway art project. It has the means to express the attributes that Wyndham City Council wanted

to achieve through this project .... such as iconic scale, visual art component and creating a statement that

would contribute to discourse as a whole. In particular, geometry as a design approach in association

with parametric design tools offers aspects such as:

- Potential to minimise material waste, while maximising physical space

- Expose/ externalise the structure within the exterior envelope

- Create interesting and innovative forms and patterns from simple geometries

- Ease in fabrication

ARGUMENT

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B.6 TECHNIQUE PROPOSAL

AFFECT

These Rhino models explore the potential

the model has in creating interesting patterns

through light and shade. The triangular

modules point in the direction of travel, further

constructing a notion of the high speed the

driver will be travelling. However the pattern

produced by the light and shade, point in the

opposing direction which iterates the idea of

reflecting back on what has been seen.

When creating the design, we took to the

idea of how it may act at night, without any

electrical power source to light it. This is where

the twisting of each individual module occurs

in a way that when a cars light bounces on

the surface light may reflect in an interesting

outcome highlighting certain aspects of the

design.

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DETAILS

MODULAR TRIANGLES

SLEEVE FOR T-JOINT TO INSERT

SLIGHTLY LARGER THAN T-JOINT PLATE

TO ALLOW FOR MOVEMENT - ONCE

JOINED GAPS WOULD BE FILLEDWITH

SILICONE

T-JOINT PLATE WELDED TO

MODULES AT FABRICATION STAGE

HOLES FOR BOLTS TO ATTACH TO ONCE

INSERTED INTO OTHER MODULE

UNDERNEATH THERE IS 2 HOLES

WHERE BOLTS CAN BE INSERTED AND

ATTACHED TO T-JOINT OF OTHER

MODULE

A possible solution to connecting the triangular modules is through a T-Joint connection. This was later discovered to

be an inefficient method for construction.

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B.6 TECHNIQUE PROPOSAL

For this design, galvanised steel would be the chosen material for this project. This is due to it’s lightweight

capabilities and also the modules would be able to be welded together. It would also allow the idea of

reflection at night to be attempted with further testing.

The idea of galvanised steel also links the ‘Seeds of Change’ project that became a symbol of Wyndham.

MATERIAL IDEAS

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APPROACHING

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ALGORITHMIC SKETCHESB.7

The algorithmic sketches on this page were a way to learn how to use expressions and

evaluations in a way that can alter the original design. In particular these expressions

are used in relation to point charges and the fields are evaluated in order to achieve this

effect. However, the idea of expressions and evaluation functions can be utilised with

many other inputs/ outputs in order to have further control of the complexity of forms

and structures.

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LEARNING OBJECTIVES + OUTCOMESB.8

The mid-semester presentations provided constructive feedback to our design proposal. Beginning with the question to ask ourselves ‘why a tunnel?’. When considering gateway engineering projects, as a group we automatically thought to using a tunnel. However, challenging this norm opens up the possibilities immensely for the design outcomes.

It was also suggested that we reconsider the idea of geometry, as the groups focus was on using Ecludian geometry in order to create a ‘strong’ structure. However, utilising geometry in its fullest extent would allow us to achieve our goals of optimal efficiency of structure, form and materialisation in a higher degree of success.

Another thought that was suggested by the panel of experts was to reconsider the purpose of creating

a structure that challenges the idea of engineering. As the goal was to create a self-supporting structure and in-terms of this particular design it would need to be considered in much more depth if it was to be fabricated. As Gwyll suggested ‘either make it developable in regards to your goals, or purposely design it with the intention to piss-off engineers everytime they see it through using parametric design to find a way to build it’.

Furthermore to this idea it is necessary that our group really considers that the design needs parametric design tools for the purpose of this exploration and subject. Meaning, that we need to push the extents of the parametric design tools to create something that absolutely requires parametric tools for it’s form, structure or buildability to be found.

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Finally, the feedback iterated that as our argument involves ‘cultural capital’ the design either needs to be inheritant to Wyndham and only Wyndham and if replicated elsewhere would not have the same effect. OR do we push it further and make the proposal become the inheritant quality that creates its own ‘cultural capital’ similar to that of Canton Tower / IBA and The Guggenheim - in Bilbao.

This is where the idea of the ‘folie’ came to forefront, similar to those that Bernard Tschumi desined in his project of ‘Parc de la Villette’ . Here he created a park that was based on ‘culture’ rather than the typical notion of ‘nature’1. The idea of the folies was to have structures built but with the only intention that they provide space and act as decoration.

Further to this feedback in the mid-semester presentations, we were able to discuss further ideas with our tutors who sparked the idea of a ‘drive-through art gallery’.

Here we could create a series of geometric sculptural installations that act as pieces in an art gallery. With the added dimension of speed, which challenges the idea of the process through an art gallery that wants the patrons to stay as long as possible to contemplate and understand the pieces. It has been decided to explore the idea of having about 7 sculptural folies that will 1Tschumi ‘Parc de la Villette’ . http://www.tschumi.com/proj-ects/3/

create the Western Gateway. The idea is to start with either a simple geometry and manipulate it in ways that will totally alter the resultant design. We will be able to achieve this only through the use of parametric tools. Where similar to the idea of a matrix, we will be able to show the process of change from one form to another in an intriguing way that will challenge the idea of art and design. It was also suggested we could approach this idea with the intention of being an egotistical artist that wants to show their process of how they achieve their outcome. Pushing this idea that it will take on the notion of becoming a cultural investment within itself for Wyndham. It will still be necessary to incorporate our goals for using geometry in a more successful way than we have for this proposal.

IMAGE # SOURCED FROM http://www.webdesignstuff.co.uk/hp005/essays/

ABOVE:

IMAGE #: ONE OF THE FOLIES IN PARC DE LA VILLETE

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B.8 LEARNING OBJECTIVES + OUTCOMES

OBJECTIVE 1.

The proposal itself may not be an appropriate choice for the Western Gateway Project however through discussion we were able to understand the limitations and shortcomings of the design. Furthermore, the design may not be appropriate but our arguments for geometry and cultural investment allowed for a sophisticated design approach.

OBJECTIVE 2.

Through the manipulation of a variety of definitions it was demonstrated that a variety of design possibilities could be generated through parameter

manipulat ion. However, a f u r t h e r co m p a r a s i o n a n d development of a matrix would make this objective achieved in a higher regard.

OBJECTIVE 3.

Through utilising digital three dimensional models we were able to effectively fabricate a three dimensional physical model out of a two dimensional mater ial , However we did approach fabrication issues were discussed in section B.5. However, a further exploration of the realistic materials and fabrication methods needs to be addressed and this in turn will allow us to analyse the affect in more depth.

OBJECTIVE 7.

Through the process of alterning a given geometry and also reverse engineering a precedent project it was demonstrated that I can successfully utilise Grasshpper as a parametric design tool.

OBJECTIVE 8.

Through the constant iterations and development of parametric definition construction I have demonstrated self-learning a b i l i t i e s . H o we ve r, I h a d difficulties with utitilising the program efficiently for most of the duration of the project.

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