Air
Architecture Design Studio Air Sherry Ng Tutor: David Lister
Contents
Introduction
About Me 4
Case For Innovation
Architecture As A Discouse 5 Computational Architecture 10 Parametric Modelling 14 Algorithmic Exploration Conclusion 16 Learning Outcomes 17
Design Approach
Design Focus Case Study 1.0 2.0 Technique Development Prototypes and Proposal Algorithmic Sketches Learning Outcomes & Objectives
Project Proposal
Gateway Project Design Concept Tectonic Elements Final Model Algorithmic Sketches Learning Outcomes &Objectvies References
About Me
My name is Sherry Ng, I am a third year architecture student at the University of Melbourne. I have entered this course both inspired and challenged as an aspiring architect. With limited knowledge and experience in computational design. I have thoroughly enjoyed studying architecture in previous years as subjects such as Visual Communication, Design Studio Earth and Water enabled us to express creatively through drawing and painting. However, as Design Air focuses purely on computational design, I hope to be able to learn some 3D modelling and scripting techniques that would potentially be useful in the future. I have always been interested in Architecture, Art and Design. It is important to acknowlege the role of technology and digital computation that is becoming severely significant in our every lives. The role of computational design not only enables us to generate complex forms but more importantly, technology is changing the perception of society, circulation of space, and our existing environment.
Part A
Expression of Interest Case for Innovation 1. Wyndham is a developing city, a place of growth. It is aspiring to be a point of focus within a broader spatial context. It is aspiring to be a place that portrays it’s own cultural identity within Victoria. As Wyndam city is a place of development and change, it is important to portray it’s development through its physical environment. Wyndham Gatway Project encourages innovation and exploration that will ultimately generate attraction by it’s social context. This suburban area is striving to create it’s own identity and statement within the urban environment.
2. I believe that Wydham needs a space that epitomizes innovation, creation, and a thought provoking sculptural statement. This approach conveys Wyndham’s sense of identity within it’s suburban environment. It will take precedent from Melbourne as the epitome of cultural, social, and economical success in Victoria. This is the aspiration of the city of Wyndham.
3. The Gateway Project offers Wydham City to generate a sense of identity through the use of parametric modelling within its geographical context. Parametric modelling represents a new era, the current age of architectural progression. It epitomizes modernity, innovation and technological advancement.
Discourse
Architecture Discourse Architecture as a discourse is to explore the possibilities of responsive architecture to enhance positive human interactions. A discourse can be understood as a network tool to communicate, generate, represent and to construct ideas in both the built and social environment. Architecture engages with the public in many layers of interaction, from the physical surrounding to social interactions in their everyday life; it is an instrument in which constructs our identities and differences, to shape how we perceive the world we live in.
Modernism, minimalism, brutalism and deconstructivism generated a discourse which inspired and challenged the architectural movement during different periods of time. However, to introduce architecture as a “new” discourse is to engage architecture with new technology without discarding traditions. Parametric design enables flexibility and versatility to the possibilities of architecture that was previously restricted by traditional design methods. This new form of technology enables architects of today to modify, improve and stimulate new ideas with better productivity within the industry. Architecture not only responds and relates to its surroundings, it also intervenes with other communication systems that is outside of the profession of Architecture.
It is a physical element that is embedded into our natural/built environment; this will inevitably affect human interactions in all levels and more importantly it is a statement and an investment that will remain in the past, present, and future. The brief that was proposed by Wyndham City Council suggests that the Western Gateway should propose new, inspiring and brave ideas, to generate a NEW discourse.” This proposal challenges creative thinkers to be innovative and inventive with their designs with modern technology, it is important to consider the technology that is available to us today to reflect our environment and society. “Architecture is more than designing buildings, it is about designing society and their way of life”
Metropol Parasol 2005-2011
Jurgen Mayer H Architects
The Metropol Parasol (20052011) By Jurgen Mayer H Architects. The structure consists of a waffle-like crown form incorporating a sequence of undulating parasols. This project is similar to Wyndham Gateway Project as it generates architectural discourse and it is experimenting with new design paradigms and technology. This structure has enabled the public to generate a discourse around it. It is currently known to be a place of identification for Seville as well as gaining the title of one of the world’s most fascinating cultural destination.
This is an exciting project as it incorporates the organic fluidity that was generated by parametric architecture with the use of natural timber. This space is currently used as a social and cultural hub, a meeting space for public activities to be held. As Jurgen Mayer states “This contemporary landmark defines a unique relationship between the historical and contemporary city. This public realm has been utilized as an archaeological museum, a farmers market, bars, restaurants and panorama terrace. This computational architecture offers a dynamic revelation in the city of Seville. The structure was constructed in high-performance polyurethane resin, this material has been tested to have a high endurance to high temperate climatic conditions. Jurgen Mayer explored the relationship between spatiality and human relationships. This design is a result of complex geometric shapes that is also perceived as a sculptural piece of art.
The structure is constructed in interlocking timber polyurethane parasols that not only provides shelter to the public space, but it also creates a fascinating pattern from light and shadow. The overall form of the parasol is organic and fluid-like. This contrasts from the structured rigidity of the urbanscape. The form evokes a sense of movement within the landscape; the neutral beige tone of the timber contrasts from its urban monochromatic surroundings.
The Metropol Parasol is an exploration of parametric design incorporation natural materials such as timber, I would like to further experiment and explore with this material in my design as it is a light weight material that will potentially require smaller footings during construction. It will also be cost efficient. Aesthetically, the use of timber/wood evokes a lighter and smoother appearance compared to other materials. This material also reacts quickly to both heating and cooling climate.
The purpose of the Gateway Project is to generate a discourse and attraction to the city of Wyndham. The use of natural wood/ timber constructed with parametric and computation design represents the technological advancement of this suburban town.
The concept of Voussoir Cloud was first inspired by the works of Frei Otto and Antoni Gaudi who used hanging chain models to find an efficient form. Computational methods were used to precisely measure each peal whose curvature depends on the voids that exist around it The material that was used in this structure are thin wood laminate which were folded along seams.
The compression of these petals against one another created the structual stability of the vaults and overall form. This project is an example of new forms that was constructed more accurately using computational methods. This allowed each components of the design to be more accurately defined and fabricated.
Voussoir Cloud by Iwamotoscott
This is a site-specific architecture installation using an age-old masonry vault paradigm with an intent to “confuse the structural and material strategies�A series of intricate geometric studies and structural simulations result in a system of compressed vaults created by grouping together a light-weight, wedge shape modular element called the Voussoir.
The examples of the computational diagrams shows that the petal is formed by folding paperthin wood laminate along curved seams, this is the key structurall componets in forming the arches. The image about shows a close up image of the compressed petals
The Kuwait International Airport by Foster & Partners is a strong example of computational design. This simple yet innovative form demonstrates the capabilities of new technology in the role of design. The main idea around this structure is revolves around the concept of geometrical symmetry. The architects experimented with different forms of encoded symmetry and integrated the interfaces of the bays at each of the points. The geometric curves were created through the use of T Spines that collaborated together with the symmetry-encoded representation to create a highly complex curvature.
This design concept focuses heavily on the geometry and symmetry to create a sense of balance and harmony towards the overall form. Through computational design, the architects were able to accurately model complex topological issues and provide solutions.
Kuwait International Airport Kuwait 2009
The international airport utilizes current computational programs to recreate a design that was inspired by vernacular architecture in shape and form. The design respects the traditional Kuwait but is open to intervention and innovation to welcome the future. This architectural outcome depicts the possibilities of new computation design without discarding its cultural roots.
It is a reflection of technological advancement in our environment today. Architects have utilize the available programs to improve design methods to complying the needs and demands of society in the 21st century.
The Museo Soumaya was conceived as an iconic structure with two missions: to host one of the largest private art collections in the world, and to reshape an old industrial area of Mexico City. Parametric modelling, laser scanning, and other algorithm techniques are a few methods that was used during this design process. The façade of the architectural form of Museo Soumaya is a double-curved surface that represents the concept of the museum as a container for the work, with the size of each floor plate responding to the nature of the collection on that floor.
Structural engineers collaborated with architects to ensure 26 curving columns and horizontal steel rings lay on the design surface. The iconic museum in Mexico City has integrated computational techniques, and 3-D modelling. The Panel Design and Fabrication is composed by hexagonal aluminium panels. Each node in the façade structure holds the centre of gravity of a single hexagonal panel and three incoming struts.
“The exterior of the building is an amorphous shape perceived differently from every angle, reflecting the diversity of the collection inside. The building’s distinctive façade is made of hexagonal aluminum modules facilitating its preservation and durability” (Archello website quote). The construction method used to exhibit this façade of 15,000 aluminium plate hexagons contributes as a precedent to the methods we have proposed in our design.
The shell is constructed with steel columns of different diameters, each with its own geometry and shape, creating non-linear circulation paths for the visitor. The building encompasses 20,000 square meters of exhibition space divided among five floors, as well as an auditorium, cafĂŠ, offices, gift shop, and multipurpose lobby. The top floor is the largest space in the museum, with its roof suspended from a cantilever that allows in natural daylight.
Museo Soumaya,
Mexico City, Mexico, 2011
ICD/ITKE Research Pavilion The Institute for Computation Design (ICD) and the Institute of Building Structures and Structural Design (ITKE) built the Research Pavilion in Stuttgart University, Germany 2011. The Pavilion was created by computer-generated programs that explores the architectural transfer of biological principles of the sea urchin’s plate skeleton (University of Stuttgart website 2011). This process explores the bionic principles to a range of complex geometries through parametric processes. The structure was constructed in 6.5 millimetres of thin sheets of plywood. This structure was constructed using parametric modelling to its specific dimensions and accuracy; its complex geometries is a series of repeating patterning.
. The ICD/ITKE Research Pavillion 2011 project was designed to aim at integrating the performative capacity of biological structures into architectural design. Wood has been chosen as a material due to its low environmental impact and portability. ICD/ITKE Research Pavillion 2011 was constructed from a range of different sized panels with finger joints that were used to create a number of polygons which interlock at various angles to achieve the final outcome. Parametric modelling enables designers to have more freedom in coming up with complex geometries with a lower production cost due to efficient construction method and efficient use of materials.
This structural form demonstrates that natural forms have significant contribution in architecture. Computation also ensures the accuracy of the outcome and manufactures new forms in the built world. Parametric architecure creates a new platform of designing and enables highly complex geometries to be built in reality. The gateway project is aspiring to generate the same outcome whilst potentially attracting the public to interact and engage with the sculpture.
ICD/ITKE Research Pavilion
Conclusion
In the 21st century, the advancement of technology is achieving more complex architectural outcome is very evident in our lives. Computational programs enable designers to create more innovative designs, complex forms, to reach new potentials and solve more complex problems. Parametric design is one example which enables the program to create more creative geometries and a better utilization of space and form.
This digital age is also creating more opportunities for designers to be creative in their response to the environment. It is important to acknowledge that to adapt to our environment, one more be able to accept change. The change of technological advancement, the change of society’s needs and demands, and the change of the environment natural conditions; computation programs will be able to assisting designers to generate more innovation and creative outcomes to our environment and existing issues. Therefore architects should adapt to these changes to survive in the architectural practice.
In regards to the Wyndham Gateway Project, it is important to consider that this space will be used by everyday users to uses private transportation to and from their destination. This “NEW” discourse will be able to generate an introduction to computational architectural design towards society. It challenges and generates society’s perception of architectural design and discourse. It marks a new decade of technological advancement within the architectural practice, the society and community.
Learning Outcomes
Before starting Bachelor of Environments at the University of Melbourne, my knowledge of Architecture revolved around drawing, sketching and creating models from Visual Communication at Secondary College. I had no knowledge of any computational programmes as we were taught to generate ideas through sketching and researching. I was deeply inspired by the idea that architecture is art but to facilitate users of the space and contributing to society in all levels. Architecture is a reflection of the past, present and future; it is designs which creative thinkers leave behind and will continue to exist for as long as they can.
After completing Case for Innovation, I now have a better understanding of computational designs and programs. The design process much differs from the traditional method but strives for a better outcome within a shorter amount of time. It generates countless of possibilities that is beyond the normal hands-on method of idea generation. Experimenting with grasshopper and Rhinoceros 5 has enabled me to really appreciate the contribution of technology in our environment today. Computation design enables designers to experiment with form, textures, materiality, space with more time efficiency and complex possibilities.
Algorithmic Explorations
After attempting at the online techinical and demonstration videos. Here are some more successful algorithmic explorations done in Grasshopper and Rhino.
Exploration of different points and curves to form the surface. With the use of number slider to increase and decrease the number of points in the form.
Throughout the online exercises I have learnt to utilize different curves and points to create a range of lofted forms. It is much faster to produce three dimensional objects on grasshopper and Rhino. Grasshopper enables designers to alter and modify the lofted curved forms in much more detail and freedom compared to rhino itself.
Patterning algorithm was also explored in the tutorial. The scripts enabled a simple pattern to multiplied over different scripting and algorithms,
The potential of working with algorithm scripts is the ability to revisit previous explorations and iterations. This method is much more efficient to produce and generate concepts for three dimensional models. The data stored enables users to modify and recreate many iterations from the same script. The online tutorial was very helpful in demonstrating the different uses of each tabs, but it is also difficult to comprehend if one is stuck in the midst of the tutorial.
Part B
Expression of Interest Design Focus In this section we look into material performance (minimal surfacing) to illustrate why it is suitable for Wyndham City Gateway Project. “Seeds of Change” is the previous public art established by Wyndham city that was also highly criticized by the community for it’s high cost and slow progess – according to Cameron (2011), this project was Wyndham Council’s agenda for five years and this cost ratepayers a total of $25,000 which did not create the intended reaction or a dynamic visual impact. Due to the feedback received by Wyndham City Council, it is important to focus on the visual impact of the sculpture and more importantly create a structurally efficient structure that is not exceeding the budget. The intention is to create a space that is not only sculptural but it is also functional for the users of the space. The driving force to our design is to evoke layers of meaning into the sculpture.
As Wyndham City is a new suburb that is located on the fringe of this urban context, it is important to emphasize on the idea of sustainability in this emerging suburb. We have intended to look into natural formations of structures to highlight the importance of sustainability for present use and future generations. As coral reef flourishes only in a healthy ecosystem, our team is planning to integrate this concept into our design. This will be the fundamental drive to our design with the features of minimal surfacing and the use of natural materials. Our team have intended to use coral reef as a symbol to represent the Wyndham district as a lighthouse to signify that Wyndham is a city of growth and sustainability; It is a symbol of purity, greenery and growth.
Our coral reef concept also relates to Wyndhams city’s distinctive attractions such as Point Cook Marine Sanctuary, Wyndham Harbour Water Discovery Centre and Melbourne’s Western Treatment Plant. Our teams overall objective is to create a coral-like structure that is recognisable as well as functional to users. The concept will be designed in the choice of using minimal surfacing. The techniques we have chosen to explore is geometric patterning, open and closed branches, and voids to symbolize the intended coral effect of our structure.
These paintings symolizes the overall mood and atmosphere we intend to convey through our design. The concept of purity in form and the illusion of entering an underwater reef. As part of our design concept, we will be focusing on three main areas in our design. 1) Assymtrical and Geometric Pattening, 2) Branching, 3) Open Brain Coral Structures. We will be exploring with related existing projects such as The Green Void by Lava and Marc Fornes nonLin Pavillion Project. These two precedents have been inspired by the natural formation of coral reefs and conveyed their concept through minimal surfacing and patterning. Our team’s objective is to create a glowing underwater seascape (refer to image above) that illuminates on our existing site as a symbol of Wyndham City.
$440 million project has been invested in Wyndham Harbour; this investment will transform the Werribee South Foreshore into a boating mecca with a mix of retail and residential elements to ensure a year round vibrancy. Wyhdham Harbour will be the new attraction with dynamic waterfront cafes and restaurants located in Marina Square. As a promising City, Wyndham Harbour marina is destined to become the new centre of recreational boating in the West, attracting major boating events, regattas and races.
In deciding our method and materiality of our construction. We have experimented with wood, polypropelene, perspex, paper to explore the different outcomes they create. We have concluded with a translucent, durable and cost efficient material to convey our design concept. Our team has also identified the most cost effective way to construct this large scale structure on site. The sculpture will be constructed by a central frame with branch like structures that radiates from the center, panels will be affixed to the branches. These panels will act as a shell that wraps around the branches. This method of construction allows the panels to be replaced if damaged/deterioted.
Case Study One
The Green Void Project, Lava
The Green Void Project by LAVA This installation is a great example of minimal surface and material efficiency. This installation is comprised of 3000cubic meters of space enclosed within a minimal surface area of 300 square meters and used only 40kg of lightweight material. The concept was achieved with a flexible material that follows forces of gravity, tension and growth, similar to spider web or a coral reef. The installation is a minimal surface that consists of tensioned Lycra material, digitally patterned and custom tailored for the space. This light weight fabric design follows the natural lines, contours and surface tension of the fabric. While appearing solid, the structure is soft and flexible that ultimately becomes a dynamic visual sculpture when projected with different lighting. Metaphorically, Green Void consists of layers of meaning. This installation is a response to sustainability because it is portable and reusable and it makes an optimum use of material. It can be installed and removed without much impact on the existing interior and exterior of the building. The green void also provides a new experiential space that was previously undiscovered in a heritage building.
As Wyndham City is a growing suburb in an urban context; it is important to create a sculpture that promotes the idea of sustainability while creating a new experiential space that has never been experienced in the city of Wyndham. Our team is deeply fascinated by the combination of minimal surface and lighting. As the form resembles our team’s objective of assymetrical branching, we hope achieve this affect in our concept design with the addiitional qualities of spatial depth in our sculpture. We would be exploring into the aspects of minimal surface, natural formation of coral reefs, and the experiential outcome of our structure.
Case Study One Exo-skeleton Matrix
Algorithmic Exploration The matrix was constructed by exploring the exoskeleton component to produce these mutations. The exoskeleton component was able to transport simple wireframe lines to thicker forms. By drawing the curves along the forms, we produced solid forms that consists of several pipes and spheres. As we were exploring with this technique, we attempted to utlize the structure as a base form for our coral design. The thickness of branches and struts can be manipulated into the structure as a shelter canopy in our concept design.
It was fascinating to observe the outcome of our design by altering the sliders, and experimenting with inputs such as lines instead of curves. Our team experimented with the complexity of our form and although it did not accurately portray the coral-like effect that we were hoping to; this could potentially help us in form making in later stages in our design. By altering the inputs of struts, nodes, sizes and faces; we created a matrix with unexpected outcomes. Our team will be developing on this matrix to create different branching structures as part of our concept design.
After several attempts in achieving a minimal surface structure, we were able to achieve a relaxed surface structure using a physic similation engine called “Kangaroo�. We were able to create the effect of a relaxed surface by creating anchor points for the surface to have a place to fix itself to. This was achieved by creating a set of mesh boxes and join them as a tunnel. The Springs component converted the lines to springs; this resulted the surface to stretch.
This effect is very similar to the Green Void Project by LAVA. The organic lines created by the Lycra fabric evokes a sense of fluidity and a branch-like effect that we were intending to convey. We hope to develop this technique further through technique exploration, prototyping and construction attempts.
Exo-skeleton Matrix
Relaxed Surface Matrix
nonLin/Lin Pavilion project is a prototype that combines elements of biomimetic design. The concept of this structure derived from organic forms found in underwater coral species. The prototype employs a series of architectural elements referred to as text based morphologies; this self supporting structure enables the users to experience the spatial depth, visual illusions, notions of limitations and filtrations within the given parameters. This visual phenomenon enables the users to experience analogies from nature (corals) through the structural formation of voids and solids. The structure is a combination of fluid organic lines and the integration of holes, end rings, open edges, connections and branches. The structure is transportable and it is assembled from 27 components, 40 preassembled white aluminum modules made of 570 CNC-cut single components. Our team is deeply fascinated by Mark Forne’s approach to the pavilion prototype and its construction methods in putting together this prototype.
The advantage of this prototype is that the structure is light and easily transported. Our team is deeply fascinated by the surface detail and patterning and the construction methods of this prototype. We will be incorporating this unique experiential qualities of Marc Fornes work while incorporating elemets such as light in our design. We will not be using this material as we are intending to use translucent materials such as perspex or polypropelene to achieve our intended effect.
Case Study Two
nonLin/Lin Pavilion Project
Our team decided to create a two dimensional patterned panel and map it onto a surface. We created a voronoi divided space to build up tubes that is similar to a trumpet; we started with a rectangle and add points to the shape and connected this to pop2D. Secondly. our objective was to create two levels of loft compoent to form a three dimensional structure across the plane. Lastly, we offset the curves of voronoi with a direction Z. The more points we had in the plane, the more division the form concluded with. Multimple variations were created through different lofting sizes and distance/directions of offset. We were able to apply this surface onto our curved form to create a canopy-like structure.
Form Development As our overall focus is to create a coral-like structure in our concept design. We decided to incorporate both geometries from Case Study 1 and 2. Our team intended to create a structure that is accessible whilst providing shelter to the public. This result geometry was constructed by using physics similated engine a.k.a Kangaroo plug-in in Rhino. We are integrating both geomteries to create an open branch/brain effect. We firstly established a centre point in the plane of the voronoi to attract points from the branch. The Spring components from the Kangaroo plugin was able to change the ridigity of the branch structures. We further explored with the geomtry with the objective to create a thick trumpet like branching structure that is accessible to the public.
Technique Development
Further Explorations
Marc Fornes’s Echinoids and Sukkah City explores with the materiality of walnut veneer. Our team’s initial concept was to utilize this material in our design. However, after looking at several examples of exisiting sculptures. We believe that wood is not the material that would be represent our sculpture. Although wood is a natural material and it can evoke a sense of connection to nature; we believe that the portrayal of wood is mundane and static. Our objective is to create a translucent effect that is able to refract natural light and the lights that will ultimately be installed within the structure.
Our second option of material choice is polypropelene. This material is flexible, soft, easily bendable and translucent. However, this material is not ideal for external construction purposes due to its deterioting properties. The material has a very short life span and have only been constructed in interior installation. Polypropelene will not be able to support itself in an external climatic environent. However, we are hoping to construct our small scale propotype with this flexible material to experiment with different lighting effects and construction methods.
Our final material choice is perspex frost. This material has been constructed in many buildings and sculptures. This material has many advantages such as: 1) Translucent 2)Unique double sided finish 3)Large palette of colours available 4)No visible fingerprint 5) Easily bent, thermoformed and fabricated 6)Suitable for food contact 7) 10 years lifespan guarantee
Materials
walnut veneer, polypropelene, perspex frost
This is a prototype of our void model constructed in polypropelene; The translucency of this material enables the coloured light shine through the structure. This effect has the potential to create different moods to the landscape. After experimenting with the various forms and voids in our structure, we believe that the final form evokes a sense of fluidity in structure and it also conveys the three main focus of : asymmetry, branching, open cell structure that we mentioned previously. We are very excited in developing this project further with the incorporation of light and perspex.
This prototype is a representation of the real life construction method of our concept design. The internal structure consists of a central core with branch-like structures radiating from the centre. The internal structure will sit on a concrete base as a foundation. The triangulated panels which make up the sculpture will be affixed to the “branches�; This will also allow for future replacement of panels due to deterioration as the intended design material (Perspex Frost) has a weathered lifespan of 10 years.
Materials
walnut veneer, polypropelene, perspex frost
Prototypes
Paper, Wood, Polypropelene, Stockings This void structure is the base of our final design. Here we are developing on our form’s surface patterning. Should the material be constructed in timber with patterning holes along the surface or should it be constructed in an opaque material. Our team is also experimenting with the experiental qualities of our form but observing and documenting the form from different perspectives.
These are some initial protoypes that is constructed in wood and paper. Our team was experimenting with trigulated miniature forms to create a range of difference sculptures. This helped us to envision the experiental qualities when walking through the space. We then covered the struture in stockings to experiment with fabric tension to create the qualities similar to The Green Void by LAVA.
As our final experimentation, we included the use of light to the polypropelene material. It was interesting to see the effect light created when reflected on the surface, We could further develop this concept with our final form in the next part of our journal. The void like sculpture resembles the opening brain structure of the coral reefs. We would potentially position the light along the openings of our sculptures.
Technique Proposal
We have concluded to use relaxing surface to create our organic fluid form of coral-like structures. Perspex Frost is the best material to represent our concept due to it’s durabity and the variety of colours that the material offers. Our objective is to create a structure that is vibrant, translucent, and most importantly to invite users into the City of Wyndham through the experience of entering an underwater reef. We have chosen to position our sculpture on site B as the area is located next to the petrol station. This will encourage users to stop by and engage with the space we have created.
As this space will be accessible to the public. We have also designed the space to promote social interaction within the landscape. Sculptures will be scattered on site in diffrent scales to evoke the sense of irregularity and asymmetry that is commonly found in coral structures.
Our design concept is relates very closely to the local attractions of Wyndham City. It is also a signpost along the entrance of the freeway indicating that drivers have entered the City of Wyndham. In conclusion, Our Gateway Project epitomizes the main attraction of Wyndham City, and more importantly it is a symbol of purity and growth that strives for a sustainable future.
Learning Outcome
After complething our Part B of Expression of Interest journal. I have realised that it is very important to be up to date with weekly assessments and expectations. Although Grasshopper is a tough language to master in such a short amount of time. It was very helpful to have a tutor that is passionate and genuine in helping their students improve. In a short amount of time, my team mate and I have been able to vaguely understand our script on Grasshopper and we are very happy with the final form as it reflects our main focus of the design.
Other areas to develop from here includes: -Consideration of construction methods -Positioning on site -Further development materiality and form
in
T c d p d t
References
• http://www.yatzer.com/Metropol-Parasol-The-World-s-Largest-Wooden-StructureJ-MAYER-H-Architects • http://knstrct.com/2011/12/20/icd-itke-research-pavilion-2011/
• http://www.archdaily.com/175164/kuwait-international-airport-foster-partners/1879_ fp436615_indesign/ ccccccxzzzzzzzzz • http://www.patrikschumacher.com/Texts/Parametric%20Patterns.html • http://www.archdaily.com/175164/kuwait-international-airport-foster-partners/ • http://www.ilikearchitecture.net/2011/11/icditke-research-pavilion-2011/ • http://geometrica.com/en/museo-soumaya-has-a-secret#.UhEBmpIwdGs • http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703300904576178381398949942.html • http://www.forbes.com/sites/lisaloverro/2013/03/11/carlos-slims-museum-the-museo-soumaya-glistens-in-mexico-city/ • http://www.pleatfarm.com/2009/10/14/voussoir-cloud-by-iwamotoscott-architectur
• Logo http://profile.id.com.au/Assets/profile/wyndham/images/logo.png • http://www.melbournewater.com.au/content/sewerage/western_treatment_plant/western_treatment_plant.asp • http://melbournewater.com.au/getinvolved/education/programs/WTPtours/Pages/Visit-the-Western-Treatment-Plant.aspx education center • Ramp http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8472/8088052135_67237b648e_o.jpg • Seed of growth http://cdn.portplus.com.au/1086/1086_250811112808_813_w600.jpg • http://www.experiencewyndham.com.au/attractions/major/wyndhamharbour •
Part C
Tectonic Elements -As Wyndham is one of metropolitan Melbourne’s designated growth corridors but it offers a rich and wide range of unique and distinctive features such as nature, social, historical and cultural context. -Wyndham is often associated with nature based attraction such as the Werribee Open Range Zoo, National Equestrian Centre and Melbourne Water Western Treatment; the Melbourne Water Western Treatment is also one of the world’s most significant wetlands. -Wyndham has the tagline of ‘Çity, Coast and Country’ due to its 27.4km of coastline bordering the east of Port Philip Bay.
-As the sculpture will be a gateway entrance to the city, it is important that the scuplture is engaging as well as welcoming to the visitors of the site (Wyndham City) -We have chosen site B to situate our sculpture as it encourages interaction from it’s users and it enabes users to experience the sculpture (by walking from the petrol station). -It is also important to acknowledge that there is potential to generate a discourse through this project as the city is rapidly growing and this sculpture will encourage response from the users first glance.
Design Project The objective of our design is to create a visual focal point and a new identifier for the city of Wyndham Apart from that, the design aims to project the concept of preservation of nature through the idea of underwater coral reefs. Many of Wyndham City’s main attraction is related to the preservation of flora and fauna. Our team has decided to focus on this idea of protecting Wyndham’s natural assets to ensure the future generations will be able to enjoy the waterways, grasslands and coastline within and surrounding the area. According to Wyndham City’s 2013-2017 Plan, the city identifies itself as a strong community which focuses on encouraging individual, family and group interaction. The city’s sense of community provides a disntinct sense of place within the environment.
As nature plays an integrol role in the identify of Wyndham city. The idea of natural formations of coral reefs have highly infuenced our form making, materiality as well as placemaking on site. OUr team aims to provide upcose interaction as well as to provide an identifier for the visitors of Wydham city. We have chosen site B as it is the only site that is accessible and interactive. This location is also a great platform for drivers that is driving along both sides of the highway. In conclusion, our project aims to create a discourse through desigining a framework that reflects on the natural formation of coral reefs as a symbol of purity. a recreational space that is accessible from the Caltex petrol station and most importantly, a new identity that evokes an architectural discourse beyond the first glance of the design.
1. Shelter As interaction and Symbolism is the main focus of our design project. We have decided to extend our coral-like structure into a recreational space. This is because we aim to encourage users to engage with the space physically and visually. To achieve this we created mutations that is 6metre in height that will be scattered along Site B. This will operate as a miniature garden with canopy to provide shade and shelter on site. 2. Symbolism As part of our design concept we aim to promote the idea of purity and to encourage natural preseverance in our design. This will generate a discourse through our coral inspired form
that will be illuminated with LED lights internally. The design will be divided into two parts: -Centerpiece -Undercovers The centerpiece represents a signalling post to Wyndham City Gateway while the undercovers will operate as a picturesque recreational space for visitors on site. 3. Place Making Our team have decided to locate the sculpture along site as it is the only site accessible from the Caltex Petrol Station.
Design Concept
Shanghai 2010 Boulevard Knippers Helbig//SBA International
Shanghai 2010 Boulevard is one of the remaining five structures that remains in use after the world exhibition in 2010. During the exhibition, the Shanghai 2010 Boulevard marks as the main entrance for visitors , it was also an observational desk as well as the meeting point for exhibition, events, shopping and a connecting hub to other China pavilllions. After the exhibition, this structure is used for underground shopping and metro line stations. The structue is widely used for retail, keisure, and recreational purposes
Similarly to our design project. We aim to create a signaling post to welcome users to the city of Wyndham. Anchored around the theme of ““Better City, Better Life� This sculpture is illuminated with colorchanging lights that bring the structure to life and it reflects off the triangulaed glass panels. This structure is also formed in a funnelshape to allow natural light and air flow into the lower levels of the structure.
RMIT Design Hub Sean Godsell Architects
RMIT Design Hub consists of photovoltaic cells that can be easily replaced. This means that the entire building facade can be upgraded as solar technology evoles and might potentially be enough to generate electricity to run the whole building. The facade comprises a specifically detailed double glazed inner skin on each face of the building.It is constructed in 600mm diameter sandblasted glass disks that are fixed horizontally and vertically along the aluminium axel. Each exal is fixed to the outer face of galvanised steel cylinder of slightly greater diameter 130mm in depth.
The disks also provide passive cooling system into the structure. It is also cost efficient in terms of energy consumption. RMIT Design Hub utilizes UFAD passive cooling system that natrually provides cool air and a more desirable thermal comfort in contrasts to a air conditioned work environment. The concept of promoting sustainability throught the use of materials and construction selection is an important driver to our design project. We aim to create a cost efficient structure similar to the design hub to prevent costly repairments in the future.
Design Concept colours and form
As mentioned earlier, the main centrepiece of our design is also the identifier of our coral reef concept. This sculpture focuses on conveying the three themes that is integral to our design. 1. Asymmetrical and Geometrical Patterning 2. Branching 3. Open Brain Coral Structure To further develop on this from we considered other aspects such as materiality and lighting. The visual above illustrates several renders in which the sculpture might look like when it is lit up/constructed in coloured materials.
The form branches outwards like a funnel to represent coralreef open brain structures in their natural formation. We later realised that if the structure was an independent structure placed on site; it might not create the intended visual impact to the viewers as it is just a solid one piece structure. This structure spans up to 30m in height as it towers the rest of the undercovers. The sculpture’s organic and fluid form contrasts from it’s symmetrical undercovers. Our aim is to create a recreational space for the community but more importantly, a new identity for Wyndham City’s present and future generations.
We aim to create a vibrant illuminated effect by installing LED lights internally as it shines through a translucent material. The perspex material has the duration life span of 10 years and the panels on the sculpture will be easily replaced if deterioted/ decayed. The image above illustrates the sculpture seen from top and side view. As it spans up to 30 metres in height, the sculpture can be seen from a far distance from either direction of Princes Highway.
Design Concept EXPLORATIONS Exploration 1 Our first attempt in creating our form was through waffling technique. The overall form of our mode was precise however the intended effect that was mentioned earlier in the journal was not achieved. The structure appeared solid and light could not be lit up internally from the structure as it constains no voids/funnels. Our team later attemp to attach translucent polypropelene onto the structure to analyse the effect it creates.
Exploration 2 After attaching mini biomorphic polypropelene shapes onto our waffle structure. We decided to shine various colour of light onto the structure. Although it did not achieve our intended effect. This experimentaition enabled us to further develop on material selection and fabrication technique for our sculpture.
Design Concept EXPLORATIONS
Exploration 3 The skeleton of this structure was first constructed on Grasshopper (Rhino) programme and it formed a framework to our undercover structure. This skeleton was manually attached together and later spray-painted in chrome colour to represent steel. Polypropelene biomorphic shapes was then weaved into the structure with monofilament thread. This experimentation turned out more successful in portraying our design concept; as the cardboard skeletal framework holds the form together.
Exploration 4 Instead of randomly scatterling the undercovers on site. We decided to create a trail from the caltex petrol station to the centre of the site. This placement of sculptures is subtlely inviting visitors to engage with the sculpture. The undercovers resembles the mushrooms and the centrepiece represents the flower. Therefore it is important to acknowledge that the placement of undercovers will directly impact the experiential qualities of the users.
Construction Methods The construction detailing is represented in 3D AutoCAD and a 1:5 representational model. This image shows that the mounting bracket will be attached to the steel frame and the perspex panels will be attached to the mounting bracket. This construction method is also cost effective as the perspex panels are easily fabricated and replacable if the material begins to deteriote/ decay. The sculpture will be constructed inside the ground with a concrete foundation. This standard construction method will ensure the sculpture’s structural stability and integrity over the years to come. Overall height of the centrepiece is 30metres and the height of the undercover is 6metres. On the right is a clear detail drawing of the mounting bracket close up. This mounting bracket will hold the perspex cells firmly onto the steel structure.
Final Presentation
The two image shows the design in morning/evening landscape. This illustration depicts our intended emotion that we are hoping to evoke. As visitors travel around the space, we hope to evoke a sense of visual illusion of entering an underwater coral reef. This symbol is strongly emphasized within the City of Wyndham as city, coast, country.
The unified community will also be encouraged to interact with the site as it is not only accessible from the Caltex petrol station; it is also a signalling post to welcome and encourage growth within the community.
The next few pages will illustrate the model on site. These models were fabricated in 3D printing while the previous models were manually installed and put together. We have decided to print our final site model in 3D print due to the model’s scale and intricacy of each model. The site model has been printed in 1:500 scale.
The scattered undercovers placed along the centrepiece encourage visitors to be subtlely engage with the site. (As shown in the image) Manually fabricating the models enabled us to understand the capabilities of each materials while 3D printing served another set of challenges such as model thickness and scale.
Final Presentation
Final FinalPresentation Presentation
Final Presentation
Learning Objectives and Outcome
1. This subject has enabled me to “interrogate a brief”by considering it’s relationship to current architectural works and it’s discourse in relationship to current day digital technologies. It is important to be ahead of time in any design fields as it enables creative thinkers to constantly upgrade themselves as well as to design with the capacity to adapt to future generations. 2.The time constraints that is given in each tasks enabled me to generate quickly and effectively within a design project. Although visual programming, algorithmic design and parametric modelling is new to most students entering this subject. This subject has opened up opportunities and other methods of designing that will further help the students in their designing careers. 3. This subject has taught me skills to design in a three dimensional format. Although this is just the beginning of mastering this program. i would not have attempted to use this program if not for this subject.
4. Architectural discourse is a broad concept and can be intepreted differently on different occasions. This subject has opened up my perspective in how architecture can generate a discourse differently across a tutorial/presentation environment among peers. It is interesting and fascinating to observe and critically analyse other students method of generating their discourse in comparion with my design project. Nonetheless, this subject has given us the opportunity to abstract and conceptualize our idea while considering the technical difficulting in constructing a structure. 5. During presentation feedbacks, we were required to present our project in a short duration of time. This method enabled us to critical construct our argument convincingly while keeping our presentation concise. The feedback received from presentations also enabled us to reflect and improve our project before submission dates. This teaching method offers us to build our confidence in presenting as well as the skills to capture the audiences attention.
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6. While researching architectural projects by leading architects such as Sean Godsell and Theverymany. We were not only exposed to current day computational design but we were also understanding their work in terms of concept, material selection, construction method. Prior to entering this subject, I had limited knowledge on parametric architecture. However, this subject has enabled me to analyse and document other architectural works that is (and it not) related to my own project. 7. This subject was very challenging in terms of creating our own geometry/script on Grasshopper. We have numerous attempt on the programme to achieve our concept however, luckily our tutor David was able to offer time outside of tutorial lessons to deepen our understanding with the program. (Thank you David!) Our team would have not came to a final form that best translated our idea if not for our tutors generousity in offering his time outside of tutorial lessons.
8. This subject has also allowed us to express our individual interest and ideas with the new technology that was introduced to us this semester. Although we started with limited knowledge about the programme. Me and my team were forced to think outside of the box and utilize our skills to best represent the design project. This surprisingly built our confidence as aspiring architects as we found out that we did not have to be the best in class but we could be the best that we could be,
References
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http://www.iwamotoscott.com/VOUSSOIR-CLOUD http://www.archdaily.com/335620/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/isar/sets/72157615779277778/ http://www.designboom.com/architecture/soumaya-museum-now-open-fernando-romero-interview/
• http://www.archdaily.com/33925/soumaya-museum-lar-fernando-romero/
• http://www.knippershelbig.com/en/projects/megastructure-expo-2010 • http://www.archdaily.com/57749/