Arc 6750 advanced computed aided architectural design report

COMPUTER AIDED ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN ARC 6750 REPORT PHASE 1 & PHASE 2 GROUP 6 Janhavi Elsia Sudheer Waqas Sule COURSE COORDINATORS: Dr Chengzhi Peng Dr Mark Meagher

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CONTENTS 1.0 General Introductory Note PART I: General Introduction  Introduction to Computer Aided Design (CAD)  2.2 Contextual Objective of the module PART II: Phase I     

Introduction to Phase 1 3.1 Methodology Adopted 3.2Outcome of Phase I 3.3 Difficulties Experienced 3.4MajorLesson

PART III: Phase II     

4.0The Design Scheme 4.1Items Provided for Use 4.2RefinedFocus 4.3Methodology Adopted 4.4OutcomeofPhase II

PART IV: Concluding Notes  5.0 Conclusion  5.1 Challenges/Lessons for the Future  5.2 References/Bibliography CAAD ARC6750

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1.0 GENERAL INTRODUCTORY NOTE Portland works, located in the heart of Sheffield is a building with heritage importance (Grade II listed building). It is the first place where stainless steel cutlery was made and is architecturally significant in view of its well-built set of workshops in a courtyard behind a rather grand frontage. This project is borne out of the intention of the public volunteers in conjunction with the Department of Architecture of the University of Sheffield to secure a future Portland Works from being closed down and converted to residential flats following the public campaign which culminated into the refusal of the planning application for its initial change of use.

Presently, it is almost a complete shadow of its former self despite its continuing role of providing workshops and studios for independent metal workers and other creative people.

Following the public outcry from January, 2009 through May, 2011 which culminated into the refusal of the planning application (by the Sheffield City Council Planning Officers) for its initial change of use from a place of “Business and Industry” into a residential accommodation, there was a need to put forward an alternative future works in form of renovation/remodelling of the existing structures which has so far been housing artists, musicians, crafts people and engineers, thereby helping the new proposition by offering some public access to the heritage centre within the courtyard.

Within the context of this developmental cum remodelling framework is the involvement of the Department of Architecture of the University of Sheffield and subsequent direct application of the knowledge of Computer Aided Architectural Design (ARC6750) in form of a semester based group project which required three-dimensional model of the existing Portland Works and its subsequent remodelling for future occupation by potential clients, taking cognisance of the available space areas and the facilities in place.

To achieve this, the following objectives were set; • • •

To construct accurate 3D models of the building from the existing set of its 2D plans, sections and elevations; To visualise site-specific characteristics of the Portland Works site with extra layers of information or architectural features; To explore what roles that 3D architectural modelling could play in the broader project context and work flow in addressing the needs of effective communication and;

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To develop an understanding of the connection between 3D modelling/rendering and innovation in architectural design, project management and production.

As an overall execution strategy, the task was divided into two phases of I and II which lasted from October, 2011 through January, 2012 as documented in this submission.

This report, which gives a comprehensive detail of the project execution, is divided into four parts as follows; Part I – General Introduction: This part highlights relevance of CAD (Computer Aided Design) and particularly CAAD in the context of CAAD module this semester, ARC6750, for the purpose of architectural drafting and modelling as in this case. It further reveals the contents of the entire project and the implementation strategies adopted.

Part II – Phase I Project Execution: This part highlights the contents of Phase I and its execution strategies. It states the aim, the methodology adopted, the outcome, in form of images, the application packages utilised, distribution of responsibilities among the group members as well as challenges experienced.

Part III – Phase II Project Execution: Similar to Phase I above, this part also highlights the contents of Phase ll and its execution strategies. It states the aim, the methodology adopted, the outcome, in form of images, the application packages utilised, distribution of responsibilities among the group members as well as challenges experienced.

Part IV – Concluding Notes: This part gives a general conclusion on the project execution particularly, relevance of CAAD within the context of the exercise. It further highlights some of the challenges experienced in the course of the project as well as suggestions on general way of improving the modules in the nearest future.

Each of these parts is thereby presented in turn as follows;

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PART I: GENERAL INTRODUCTION 2.0 INTRODUCTION TO CAD Computer-aided design (CAD) simply refers to the use of computer technology for the process of design and design-documentation. It describes the process of drafting with computer by providing the user with input-tools for the purpose of streamlining design processes inclusive of drafting, documentation, and manufacturing processes. CAD software uses either vector based graphics to depict the objects of traditional drafting, or may also produce raster graphics showing the overall appearance of designed objects.

CAD is an important industrial art extensively used in many applications, including automotive, shipbuilding, and aerospace industries, industrial and architectural design, prosthetics, and many more. CAD is also widely used to produce computer animation for special effects in movies, advertising and technical manuals. Because of its enormous economic importance, CAD has been a major driving force for research in computational geometry, computer graphics (both hardware and software), and discrete differential geometry. Its output which is often in the form of electronic files for printing or machining operations, convey information such as materials, processes, dimensions, and tolerances, according to application-specific conventions. Examples of softwares in this category include AutoCAD, Sketchup, 3D-Max, Revit, Photoshop, Powerpoint, Adobe Premiere, videopad, Vray, Lumion etc....

Against this background, introduction of Computer Aided Architectural Design in form of ARC6750 at this level with a view to maximising the benefits offered by CAD in general cannot be over-emphasized.

2.1 OVERVIEW OF ARC6750- CAAD This module provides a basic introduction to the technical background and analytical use of CAD concepts for overall acquisition of the following skills: • Proficiency in modelling complex architectural structures; • Ability to structure CAD models for analytical purposes; • Presentation of projects from analytical perspectives e.g. lighting, structure, circulation, etc.

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Understanding of rendering and multimedia principles for description and presentation of complex design projects within an analytical framework.

Aims The primary aim of this module is to illustrate and present aspects of a chosen design scheme by means of 2-D drafting, 3-D modelling, and rendering techniques with a view to developing the use of CAD to represent the salient analytical features of design projects.

Learning Objectives • Ability to develop detailed 3-D building models.

• Creation of awareness on issues related to constructing 3-D models of design schemes within CAD environments, and how these might be overcome in new or more powerful CAD software.

• Development of insights into the use of CAD in architectural practice, with particular emphasis on its ability to integrate various related technical disciplines • Appreciation of the distinction between realistically rendered finalised schemes, and more schematic analytical, working models.

2.2 Contextual Objective of ARC6750 In view of the aims and learning objectives highlighted above, direct application of the module was to be demonstrated in remodelling of Portland Works as given in the Project Brief.

PART II: PHASE I (modelling of entire Portland Works & detailing its staircases) 3.0 Introduction to Phase I The focus of this phase was to develop 3D models of the Portland Works on the basis of the existing drawings and site visits with a view to convey accurate geometrical measurements as well as visual representation of the unique ‘placeness’ of both the interiors and exteriors of the buildings. These parts must share a common reference framework such that the parts will produce a well-formed whole works when assembled. In addition to this was the need to identify a unique building element. In our case we chose to detail Portland Works ‘Staircases’.

Items Provided: A set of 2D AutoCAD drawings.

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3.1 Methodology Adopted & the process The methodology adopted include the following: • Reconnaisance Site Survey: This was in form of visits to the site to reconcile the differences observed on the incomplete set of drawings provided. Four of such visits were made; • Regular Meetings: These were in form of: (i) meetings with the present occupants of the buildings to obtain relevant information and; (ii) series of informal meetings within the group members to trash out few grey areas observed • Sharing of Responsibilities Among Members: The buildig was divided into four manageable parts depending on the elevatios as each person was assigned with each. Also various staircases were identified. We chose to document staircases which we accessible.

We physically documeted each of the chosen staircase so that we get accurate dimensions for the same for modelling.

3d model of the building was made by creating various layers for each element so that modellig can be done in an systematic way.

The process proved challenging at the onset as each member was proficient in different 3D-based application packages of 3d AutoCAD, Sketchup, 3D-Max and Revit. This, we found very difficult to carry on with as the final assemblage of the entire Portland Works in sketch up . However, we overcame the problem by sharing the responsibilities randomly at different levels of project execution.

The softwares used by each of the group members in phase 1 are as follows; • Janhavi – Sketchup, Powerpoint and AutoCAD; • Elsia – 3D Max and AutoCAD; • Sudheer – AutoCAD, Sketchup and I-Render; • Waqas – AutoCAD and 3D-CAD; • Sule – AutoCAD, Revit and Powerpoint.

Layer box from our sketch up model showing use of various layers for managing the work CAAD ARC6750

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3.2 Outcome of Phase I Outcomes of phase 1 were recorded as follows; (i) 3D-model of the entire Portland Works as shown below and: (ii) 2D and 3D models of an existing unique building element in Portland Works, Staircase in this case; It was observed that the third floor of the east wing is unoccupied as it does have proper fireescape exit.

Majorly the staircases were made of 2 materials Stone (supposedly old construction) Steel (later construction)

STAIRCASES CONSIDERED FOR THE DOCUMENTING AND MODELLING

3D MODEL OF THE PORTLAND WORKS IN SKETCH UP AND RENDERED IN I RENDER. CAAD ARC6750

UNOCCUIED SPACE HIGHLIGHTED Page 8

STAIRCASE IN STONE

STAIRCASE IN STEEL

3.3 Difficulties Experienced It was noticed that the staircase in the available drawings provided did not match the existing ones documented on site. This made it difficult for us to place the modelled staircases into the Portland Works model. Therefore we chose to present the staircases in isolation to the building.

3.4 Major lessons This exercise has clearly demonstrated relevance of a team work in the execution of a task of this nature as each member played a complimentary role for the overall realization of the collective goal of the group.

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PART III: PHASE II 4.0 The Design Scheme The scheme essentially was to develop a website to rekindle the spirits of the craftsmen and other stakeholders about the relevant potentials capable of deriving in such an environment like Portland Works, by opening a vista of possibilities for their overall efficient performance as future occupants of the buildings. This was to be showcased in form of an interractive website through which the stakeholders and the general public could assess portland work and its properties available for rent (without necessarily physically present at the site), furture comparing vaious options available depeding upon their occupation type, thereby determining the suitability of the spaces with respect to the sizes, location, facilities contained and other sundry personal requirements for their efficient performance if rented. This was to serve as a prototype design for other functional spaces within.

4.1 Items Provided for Use Items obtained from Phase I particularly, 3D model of the Portland Works submitted by Group 8 in Phase I was used.

4.2 Refined Focus In order to achieve the overall aim of this phase, a sharper focus was defined consequent upon fallouts of series of review exercises and consultations with the module coordinators. Eventually, a refined focus, in form of lettable studio spaces for art work, music and wood work was identified for remodelling and showcasing, using a well designed, interactive website for the potential members of the public who might be interested in occupying them. .

4.3 Methodology Adopted; The methodology adopted include the following: Site visits and meetings with Portland Work people.

Deciding on the type of occupation we would be focusing (for the presentation) for letting the properties, in this case we chosed music studios ad artist studios.

Researching on softwares that we can use to best explain our scheme.

Deciding with the softwares to be used for the phase ll.

Researching and learning the softwares .

Searching for websites which work in the similar fashion as our scheme.

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Choosing wix .com for web designing and learning and understanding how does it works.

All of the above mentioned process was done with regular group meetings and with constant discussions with our tutors. responsibilities shared and softwares used were as follows; • • • • •

Janhavi – Sketchup for walkthroughs, Photoshop, AutoCAD for 2D-drafting, Powerpoint for presentation, website design using www.wix.com and report writing.

Elsia – Adobe Premiere for Video editing, photoshop, google earth for navigation video.

Sudheer – Sketchup for walkthroughs, videopad for video editing, Sketchup Vray and Lumion for Animation/Rendering; Waqas – Website design using www.wix.com, photoshop, AutoCAD for 2D-drafting; Sule – Report Writing.

4.4 Outcome of Phase II This is in form of a web-based design featuring google earth videos showing accessibility to the building, rendered animations of identifiable remodelled lettable studio spaces for art work and music studios to serve as prototypes to illustrate the design scheme in this case (Art work, Music and Wood work) through which individual members of the public could navigate through, to obtain information about the space area (dimension), interior conditions, locations and other sundry facilities for their effective use of the spaces (without physically goin to the place).The website also showcase the future prospects (adaptive reuse) for the buildigs which would furture increase its property valvue.

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A typical prototype for a music studio http://www.wix.com/w_junaid/studiograbs Page 11

WEBSITE PROPOSING FUTURE PROSPECTS (ADAPTIVE REUSE FOR THE SPACE) http://www.wix.com/w_junaid/studiograbs

In more specific terms, these include: • 3D - Walkthrough location of the position of the identified spaces from the main entrance to the whole complex produced in sketchup and renedered in lumion; • 2D – AutoCAD drawing of the Floor Plan with dimensions and Sections; • 3D – Walkthrough of the interior space area with inbuilt facilities and; • Other sundry information revealing the space status, contact information among others.

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PART IV: CONCLUDING NOTE 5.0 Conclusion This project no doubt, has afforded the opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge obtained in ARC6750 module in a more practical way particularly, for a large scale live project of such a magnitude, Portland Works, located in the heart of the city, Randal Street, Sheffield.

Beyond mere extrusion of basic fundamental shapes and plain architectural combination of building elements, it has provided a rare platform for integration of arrays of CAD softwares (inclusive of AutoCAD, Sketchup, 3D-Max, Revit, Photoshop, Powerpoint, Adobe Premiere, videopad, Vray, Lumion, among others) in such an amazing way that transcends mere ordinary.

Further to this is the combination of more sophisticated digital media, involving video editing tools and more importantly, designing a webbased page for showcasing the beauty of Portland Works in terms of lettable studio spaces for potential future clients. This indeed is an aspect which would go a long way in manifesting the wish and the aspirations of the Portland Committee originally set up for the fundamental role of reviving the heritage’s lost glory.

One outstanding benefit derived from this exercise was the pragmatic approach the module took. Beyond the confinement of the lecture rooms, it has afforded each member of the group the opportunity to demonstrate his/her professional acumen at more practical levels, for ultimate realization of the group collective goal in the group. Complimentary knowledge base of each member proved indispensable in this regard.

In addition, this project has equally facilitated the opportunity to relate with local residents thereby providing another window of opportunity to have their direct input and feedbacks on the necessary design proposition.

5.1 Challenges/lessons for the future Random composition of the group membership placed her activities at a difficult position at the start as many of the softwares eventually used to carry out the task were new to the members. This in no small measure took useful and substantial part of the group’s time at the commencement of the exercise as more time had to be spared for their mastery and subsequent application for overall worthy remodelling output.

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In general, the whole exercise has been quite challenging but in the end, quite rewarding as more useful softwares in the context of 3D-media packages were mastered.

5.2 References/Bibliography • • • • • •

ARC6750 (2011/2012) Introductory mini-note.

Special references are made to the following softwares: AutoCAD, Sketchup, Adobe Premiere, 3D-Max, Revit, Photoshop, Powerpoint, videopad, Vray, Lumion. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer-aided_architectural_design http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer-aided_design http://www.portlandworks.com http://www.wix.com

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