Portfolio of Graduate Works by Faraz Alian

VS NEOVERNACULAR SCULPTURAL

Cultural C entre group project: s. Aljishi, z. k A rimi

s eptember 2021

softwAres: rhino, PhotoshoP, grasshoPPer, vray ladybugtools, galaPagos

locAtion: vietnam

INTRODUCTION

Vernacular Sculptural is a pavilion and an exercise in adapting innovative mathematical approaches in Gaudí’s Architecture into the typology of a vietnamese longhouse using computational design language the long house is a communal stilt house found in the center of the vietnamese villages.

SUSTAINIBILITY STRATEGY CASE STUDY

Dimond island community VTN Architects

-Thatched roofs that controls solar radiation by selfshade.

-Elevated Platforms protect for termites and natural drainage.

-Double layered dome structures Thatch overhangs over bamboo structure to protect from heavy rainfall and sunshine.

-Traditional construction methods using bamboo.

-Skylight to provide diffuse daylight.

PROJECT GOALS

-Explore the role of the architect to adopt design strategies more familiar to the sculptor.

-Compare and contrast physical and digital representations of design intentions, regarding for environmental performance.

-Introduce participants to the subtleties of Gaudí’s parametric design.

-Experience working with geometries that have 9 degrees of freedom (parametric variables) with an aim of establishing how less can lead to more.

-Adopt optimisation tools to craft the façade parametrically with maximum environmental performance criteria.

-Explore robotic fabrication strategies big scale models.

Ho Chi Minh City Infrastruscture

VIETNAMESE VERNAVULAR

Technic used: Active Bending

Method 01: Use the revolution straight lines measure distance where they intersect the points and connect them on the casted hyperboloids.

Active bending is the systemic use of elastic deformation

“Bending-active structures are structural systems that include curved beam or shell elements that base their geometry on the elastic deformation from an initially straight or planar configuration.”

Bending-active structures: (elastic curve)

Method 02: Divide the lower and upper circle then connect with ropes with desired length

“..the behaviour of … bending-active structures do not fall into clearly predictable categories, their load bearing is largely dependent on the variety of topologies and geometrical expressions that may be generated. The geometry must be form-found, in this case simulating the elastic bending deformation, the form-finding result does not automatically define a structurally optimised geometry.” Bending follows an elastic curve, whereas the line of thrust in compression-only structures follows a catenary, or a parabolic curve, if loaded with equally distributed loads.

Rog house is a communal stilt house found in the center of villages located in the cetral highlands of vietnam, these villages belong to a minority ethnic group called montagnards. The Rong house, a communal stilt structure central to the villages in Vietnam’s central highlands, epitomizes traditional architectural wisdom, offering a culturally rich and environmentally adaptive design.

FABRICATION STRATEGYV

The fabrication strategy using the laser-cut waffle system not only leverages precision cutting technology to create interlocking components that streamline assembly and enhance structural integrity but also emphasizes sustainability by incorporating locally sourced materials like bamboo, reducing the environmental

Method 03: Laser cut waffle guide for central Laser cut waffle guide for repeated

COMPOSITION EXERCISE

The arranging and connecting elements within a predefined spatial grid, to enhance both the aesthetic appeal and functional coherence of the design. The elements are hyperboloid iterations arranges on a predefined grid, tilted based on environmental parameters.

CircularHyperboloid 1 mm

Inner_Radius 50

Outer_Radius 291

Height 250 Degree

Asympotate 40

CircularHyperboloid 2 mm

Inner_Radius 75

Outer_Radius 297

Height 250 Degree

Asympotate 40

CircularHyperboloid 3 mm

Inner_Radius 80

Outer_Radius 544

Height 350 Degree Asympotate 32

cut hyperboloid surface to intial plane without rotation or inclination

Project Surface outline on an uncut hyperboloid

GRID LOGIC; SUPERPOSITION OF PATTERNS

Experimenting with different sets of Hyperbolic surfaces to create openings on the Facade. These sets are modulated in hexagonal and rectangular grids which associates with distinct environmental properties. The positioning of the opening is altered by the direction of the hyperbolic cone as well, all the mentioned criteria were modelled and analysed.

Circular Hyperboloid

Inner_Radius 50mm

Height 250mm

Circular Hyperboloid

Inner_Radius1 40mm

Inner_Radius2 60mm

Circular Hyperboloid

Inner_Radius1 39mm

Inner_Radius2 54mm

Circular Hyperboloid

Inner_Radius 50mm

Height 250mm

Circular Hyperboloid

Inner_Radius1 25mm

Inner_Radius2 60mm

Circular Hyperboloid

Inner_Radius1 39mm

Inner_Radius2 54mm

Circular Hyperboloid

Inner_Radius 45mm

Height 250mm

Circular Hyperboloid

Inner_Radius1 15mm

Inner_Radius2 25mm

Circular Hyperboloid

Inner_Radius1 30mm

Inner_Radius2 54mm

PROJECTION METHODS

Projection Methods Exploration

Using the revolutions straight lines on hyperboloid and measure distance where they intersect the cut outline then mark those points and connect them on the casted hyperboloid.

Method 01: Use the revolution straight lines on the hyperboloid and measure distance where they intersect the cut outline then mark those points and connect them on the casted hyperboloids.

Grids of form and composition for orientation and rotation of hyperboloids. Grid patterns of composition for orientation and rotation of hyperboloids.

Method 02: Divide the lower and upper circle to equal number of segments then connect with ropes with desired length to mark the points.

lower and upper circles to equal number of segments then connect them with ropes in desired lenghts to mark the points.

COMPILED GRID CATALOGUE

Experimentation with rotation, grid size and orientation, taking in data from solar, surface curvature and wind patterns to inform the opening on the structure surface. For Fabrication we used hot wire cut method to cut the pieces of foam in mathematical precision, a bonus of using hyperbolic surfaces, which is comprised of ruled surfaces while creating highly organic morphologies.

FORM FINDING: LADYBUG, GALAPAGOS

Analysing the weather data in Ho Chi Minh city, using the environmental data to feed the gene pool for evolutionary selection in Galapagos, variables are the orientation to the sun, slope of the roofs and angle of the arm to select for the most optimal heatgain. Futhurmore the pattern are optimised to filter the sun effectivly and create shadow patterns that reduce direct exposure to the sun.

Form Optimization for Winter

Form Optimization of Roof with Galapagos

Roof Form Optimization for Summer

Roof Form Optimization for Winter

Combined Form Optimization

XE XERILITH

bio integrated modular bri C k system

group project: s. Aljishi, w.scott

september 2022

rhino, PhotoshoP, grasshoPPer, vray houdini, C# Coding langaue

locAtion: neom

INTRODUCTION

Xerilith explores new approaches to utilize features of desert plants (Atriplex) in bio-integrated desert architecture. the inhospitable and exposed nature of architectural facade makes it difficult for a sustainable and passive integration of plants with the design surface, xerilith uses 3D printed sand and clay block, injected with hydrogel to support the root system of the desert plants and dampen the environmental stress factors.

SUSTAINABILITY AND WATER

Xerilith introduces a sand-based stackable block system for façade construction. This system is engineered to capture and retain atmospheric water, serve as a substantial thermal mass, and provide structural self-support. The enhanced surface area of the blocks maximizes moisture absorption and improves self-shading, contributing to the building’s energy efficiency. The materials, including the blocks, are sustainably sourced from local sand, while the binders are derived from algae, abundantly available in the NEOM region.

FRACTAL AND L-SYSTEMS

L-systems are a class of fractals which provide a grammar for describing the growth of self-similar structures over time. L-system rules determine the underlying structures of growth in a way which is analogous to the way that DNA is thought to determine biological growth. This growth relies on the principle of self-similarity to provide extremely compact descriptions of complex surfaces.

N: 4 Angle: 90

Premise: F-F-F-F Rule: F=F-FF--F-F

Iteration1: F-FF--F-F-F-FF-F-F-F-FF--F-F-F-FF--F-F

Iteration2: F-FF--F-F-FF--FF--F-FF-F-FF--FF--F-F-F-F-FF--FF--F-FF-F-FF--FF--F-F-F-F-FF--FF--F-F

N: 4 Angle: 90

Premise: F-F-F-F Rule: F=FF-F-F-FF

Iteration1: FF−F−F−FF−FF−F− F−FF−FF−F−F−FF−FF−F−F−FF Iteration2: FF−F−F−FF−F−F−FF−F−F− FF−FF−F−F−FF−F−F−FF−FF−F−F−FF− F−F−FF−FF−F−F−FF−F−F−FF−FF−F−

MODULAR BRICK SYSTEM

The final design of the proposed block, derived from an L-system strategy, incorporates a conical exterior at the top with a flat interior at the bottom. This design is tailored to maximize efficiency in terms of energy and material use. The interior section of the block includes extrusions to enhance surface variation, which in turn increases the thermal capacity. Additionally, the exterior of the block features four cavities designed to host plants.

MODULE MORPHOLOGY

The iterative process of refining the block’s design focuses on maximizing these environmental benefits. Each iteration aims to improve the microclimate around and within the blocks. By leveraging the funnel shape of the block, the heat radiation can be improved, the Xerilith project ensures that each module not only fits aesthetically and functionally within its intended setting but also actively contributes to creating more habitable and life-sustaining environments in otherwise inhospitable regions.

ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS

Environmental optimization utilized simulation tools and empirical testing, Ladybug Solar Analysis tool assesses for effective self-shading and minimal solar heat gain. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is applied to refine airflow through the blocks, enhancing natural ventilation that maximizes dew capture. Physical tests involve heating the blocks to study their thermal properties and ability to regulate internal temperatures.

Wall System from the modular blocks

Iteration of experimental block morphologies

Fluid Dynamic Simulation of the block section

Observing the behaviour of the blocks through heat camera

FRACTALITY IN NATURE

Fractals are the greatest point of inspiration, Snow crystals exhibit Diffusion-limited Aggregation (DLA). DLA is the fractality in the natural deposition of particles, leading to mineral formations that exhibit fractal growth patterns. In botanical terms, the cauliflower demonstrates a clear fractal arrangement, organized in a spiraling Fibonacci sequence. Sand roses represent a mineralogical example of fractal patterns formed through repetitive crystallization processes under specific environmental conditions.

DESIGNING WITH FRACTALS

The nature of self-recursive systems makes them difficult to maipulate, the self-rewriting system only takes the previous iteration as the premise for the next iteration. The outcome of each iteration is the result of the generator and the rules applied to it.

Snowflakes DLA Simulation

Space-filling curves (FASS)

L-system manipulation by environmental factors

Desertrose DLA Simulation

Mandelbulb Fractal Hilber Curve

GENERATIVE ALGORITHM

Xerilith applys generative systems, particularly the L-system, which encompasses a range of self-similar systems. Various iterations were explored to identify the design most suited for architectural purposes, focusing on self-shading. The foundational shape of the blocks is derived from a 2D extrusion of the L-system, while a 3D expansion of this system facilitates a spatial arrangement that offers linear selfshading and structural support for the blocks.

SUSPENSION 3D PRINT FABRICATION

The fabrication process employs suspension 3D printing technique in sand. In this method, a mixture of clay and ecofriendly binders is precisely extruded into a container filled with sand, layer by layer, to sculpt the morphologies of the blocks. This process not only allows for the creation of the Xerilith’s unique funnel shape, optimized for environmental adaptation, but also ensures the structural integrity needed for self-support.

HOSTING PLANT AND ECOLOGICAL INTEGRATION

The blocks have been optimized to create semi-open spaces that serve as micro-oases. These spaces are vital ecological niches that provide shelter and support for a variety of plants and insects. The design of the blocks includes cavities to host plant roots, which are expected to intertwine and reinforce the structure as they grow.

MB

rhino,

MICROBIOSIS

Cultural C entre group project: s. Aljishii spring 2023

PhotoshoP, grasshoPPer, Python locAtion: london

INTRODUCTION

Microbiosis aims to employ a microbiome centric approach to re-designing living environments. Taking the Robinhood Estate as a study site that has suffered from years of neglect and underfunding, we speculate a non-destructive approach aiming at increasing the health of the residents through a microbime-centric design.

EVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS AND LAB TESTING

Surface swab samples of the interior space laid on top of the air flow velocity map of the room. Swab samples were taken from the room of a group member and CFD analysis was conducted on the 3D model of the room and the average wind data of the nearby weather station.

houdini,

Interior Airflow Analysis

Before and After

Intervention

GENERATING HEATMAPS AND POINT CLOUDS

Rearranging the openings of the old housing units to improve the airflow for a better microbial distribution. The current layout (left) is unable to sufficiently distribute airflow in the spaces. The new layout (right) closes some of the windows and opens spaces to redirect the wind.

Interior Airflow Heatmap

Before intervention

direct air flow through facing opening

Higher air velocity

Lower deposition

Human and architecture interact through the microbial dispersal gradient. This can include direct interactions like touch, indirect one like piking a book from a shelf or touching a plant or through air borne microbial dispersal induced by wind.

Interior Airflow Heatmap

After intervention

Indirect air flow through the building surfaces

Lower air velocity

Higher deposition

Point cloud from Adobe CFD

Room 1 Southern Facing High velovity air flow in and around the door frame and corners of the window

Room 2 North and east Facing High air velocity between the windows when both open also door

House 1 North Facing High air velocity between the balcony door and the rooms when windows open

High velocity points

Creating Vectors Creating volumes

GENERATING HEATMAPS AND POINT CLOUDS

The facade patterns are generated by running curl noise on the prevalent wind direction, therefore, these formations have a damping effect on the wind and maximal wind interaction allowing microbial colonies to cover the surface.

Iteration 1

Microbiome Catchments

Generating facade Pieces from environmental analysis and noise

Microbiome Catchments

Morphology of the facade creates environmental niches for insects, fungi and small plants which will foster a healthy microbiome

Curl Noise

Iteration 2

Planters

Rain water funnel

Interior root channels

Bee and Insects nest

Structure of the frames holding 3D printed pieces Noise patterns

BACTERIAL DEPOSITION

patterning the microbial deposition on the surfaces and relation between surface geometry and microbial dissemination. The yellow highlighted area corrolates to a higher CFD wind velocity and shows a considerable increase in the number of bacterial colonies.

PATTERN BEHAVIOUR

An experiment was devised to assess the effect of patterns on the surfaces to the deposition of the bacteria in the experiment chamber, two sets of molds were 3D printed and casted agar plated into them, the agars were the exposed to air and let grow, these patterns were then compared to results derived from computational analysis

Ceramic Glass Ceramic2 Plastic Wood Steel

//ZD

Midsized

softwares:

Rhino, Revit, illustRatoR, v-Ray

locatIon: tehRan, iRan

ZARBAN DWELLINGS

Brief

Zarban Dwellings is a residential complex comprising of five family houses, each approximately 120 square meters in size, with a primary focus on the cultural aspect of architecture, ZD places a premium on privacy, aligning with the essencial persian architectural values.

The initial phase involved site selection and a comprehensive study of contextual factors such as noise pollution, neighbouring shadows, and proximity to urban landmarks. The project’s challenge lay in steering clear of the common “matchbox” design prevalent in Tehran’s residential architecture, where buildings often become mere facades in the urban panorama. Instead, the goal was to create opportunities for openings and green spaces, all while considering the unique needs and social dynamics of individual families.

The site neighbours a Park which is the local aminity.

Placing the initial mass by the street to define a negative space using contrast

Divided the mass into three parts to create corridors for the outdoor space

Aligning the segments to maximise shouthern sunlight access while minimising self shading

Rotation of the walls to align with the site boundaries. New arrangement creates opportunities for balconies and overhangs and create a dynamic space

Added the access paths and circulation stairs for the units, the northern unit is a duplex two bed with first floor access connecting it to two other units

Concept Development

Design process set out to deviate from the conventional residential structures in Tehran, aiming to amplify the building’s engagement with the outdoor environment and foster the creation of atmospheric open spaces. Sunlight access played a crucial role, addressing the challenges often encountered in illuminating interior spaces in new developments.

Breaking the “matchbox” typology

Provide sun and sky access to every unit

Placemaking by negative space/gardens

Layout Axis

In order to make an interesting layout, the simple shapes were broken from guidelines parallel to the site boundaries, the axes of the interior walls regularly match one of the exteriors to create a more cohesive space.

Space

Kitchen is a key space in the cultural context where residents spend most of their time in. details in this space play an important role where a big scale plan can show the intricacies of the design. For the material palette i chose a local reference to the Persian fired brick colours, composed with a palette beige and warms greys to enhance the natural materials.

Material choice is based on local native soft woods and earth colours

//AT

Infrustructure

Ind I v I dual project

7th semester 2020

softwares: Revit, Rhino, ensCape, ladybug

locatIon: anzali, iRan

ANZALI TRAIN STATION

Brief

Anzali Station is situated in a coastal city along the Caspian Sea, enjoying a Mediterranean and humid climate that draws significant income from tourism. The newly envisioned train station is poised to be a pivotal point in local infrastructure development.

The project aims to establish an urban node seamlessly integrated into the existing infrastructure, fostering the expansion and enhancement of local communities, wealth distribution, and the creation of opportunities. Anzali Station aspires to set a precedent for socioecological conscious design, benefiting both the local communities and the natural environment. Given its advantageous location, the station seeks to become a landmark at the gateway for future travelers.

City to Access Flood basin Arrivals Departures Parkings Access to Highway

Reconstructed landuse map of Anzali, site sits nearby a protected area shown in gray, data based on in person survay and visits

Site Plan

Context

To evaluate the social impact of the project, all the major neighbourhoods of the Anzali were mapped via local and on site surveys. The station’s neighbouring Samansar community is part of the old Anzali urban fabric with valuable architectural sites and a strong community identity around fishing trade. The ground level is opened towards the water ways around the site and the new shops and stalls will house local businesses to directly source their material from the boats and canals, AT aims to design a city wide hub relying on vernavular passive cooling systems and with respect to the Lagoon ecology and to benefit the local economy.

Folded structure supporting a light roof system that can provide uninterrupted space for the passenger halls

Base structure is divided from the roof system, break lines inbetween

Protected Wetlands

Ground floor; parking spaces and public transport conections

The plan is oriented eastward to capture the sea breeze, the tall finned roof is capturing the wind like fins of a fish

Anzali Windrose

Site

C-C Section

Incoming Entrance and slanted roofs are characterises of the vernacular architecture, the ceiling height captures the sea breeze and the flat façade funnels the floor inside. The main curculation of the Building is a strong axis connecting entrance and security to the luggage check and patforms through the main hall. Other facilities include postal and medical services and lounges opening up to the green spaces in the site which are allocated for water retention and reducing flood risk. the main spaces are located above the water line.

Washing Closet details

First Floor

First floor, Main Halls

PROFESSIONAL WORKS

gR osse-Ruyken t ea M h aselbach waterm I ll

Land Surveys of the site by the team

Landscaping proposal for watermill as part of the conservation effort

te M gR oup

Inter I or renovat I on

dI plomat house

t eam project

2018 renovatIon project, modellIng and renderIng creatIng mood boards, specIficatIons sheet softwares: 3ds max, vRay, photoshop locatIon: tehRan, iRan

A-A Section

child Room

guest Room

B-B Section

Proposal for Child Room

Proposal for Guest Room

B-B Section

Furniture Plan

te M gR oup

Inter I or v I sual I sat I on

Inter I or des I gn and v I sual I sat I on Ind I v I dual p roject vI sual I sat I on for house I n elah I ye c lass I cal I nter I or des I gn proposal d ental cl I n I c I nter I or des I gn 2018-2019

vIsualIsatIon, materIal selectIon, furnIture and decoratIon softwares: 3ds max, vRay locatIon: tehran, iran