1.1.B. | Computing in Architecture J.H MAYER ARCHITECTS | SEVILLE, SPAIN | PERFORMATIVE ARCHITECTURE |
05 05 | http://www.iantenseldam.com/Artists/30382/Images/
This design encompasses the idea that the form is the structure. Although this is not a new idea by any stretch of the imagination, in fact it has been around for thousands of years, it nevertheless explores certain possibilities to deal with form as a sturctural entity. The ability of the computer to create parts and pieces to assemble the structure in a sense is lending itself more to becoming like the manufacturing industry. This particular design can be characterised as performative in terms of it’s structure. The members that provide the structure also provide the shade, the fascade, and all of the functional requirements of the structure, whilst simultaneously providing the emotive response to its observers that was intended. So whilst at first this may be considered purely form-making, it isn’t, in that its form is everything else that it needs to be. Whilst I don’t profess to be a fan of the proliferated use of waffle-like structures that are now commonplace, this one has been done particularly well. Interesting to note also, of this project is the speed of construction. Parts were simply sent to and produced by the manufacturer and then transported to the site with the utmost accuracy. A significant step, I believe in abolishing the current norm of simply using standard materials and construction sizing in projects. Customization of parts is becoming a reality with more performative structures like this requiting individually tailored pieces to be built. Synergies with engineering programs and manufacturers, creating a ‘file to factory’ workflow, makes this possible. The use of wood as a medium has been structurally optimized to make it the largest wooden structure in the world. Computer technology has worked out the optimal structural form of this wooden structure, to allow it to stand the various forces with such a material as wood. As suggested by Kolarevic, the ‘digital based convergence of representation and production processes, represents the most important opportunity for a profound transformation of the preofession and, by extension, of the entire building industry.’ |
1.1.B. PRECEDENTS | METROPOL PARASOL
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