ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN STUDIO: EARTH, SM1 2017 MASS PHOTOGRAPHY SZEHARLAIGNE YEN 720182 LIZ WATT, WEDNESDAY 2:15
Photo by author, Melbourne School of Design
Mass is evident in the weight and gravity of an object, in that the observer can depict the load of the object and perceive the feel of it’s texture. It can be observed through it’s literal volume and shape, may it be spherical or square blocks. However mass can also be defined through it’s symbolic properties, as that of the pharoah’s tomb signifying impenetrability and longevity.
Source: www.history.com, Pyramids of Giza
Consisting of earthy forms that supposes an awareness towards the gravitational pull of the ground itself. Or perhaps suggesting a resistance to the forces as shown in a mass that floats within space.
Photo by author, Federation Square
Source: MCM daily Paulo Mendes da Rocha Casa ButantĂŁ
Source: Gazeta online Paulo Mendes da Rocha Cais das Artes
A monolithic volume persists and is carved out by the spaces around it. It is this relationship from solid to void that we are able to conceive the idea of a mass within spatial voids.
Photo by author, Raymond Priestley
Source: archdaily.com Paulo Mendes da Rocha Museum of Sculpture
Subtractions of a mass reveales it’s thickness and perceived dimensions, allowing the poché or occupiable space within mass to emerge, allowing it’s residents to conduct the activities of everyday life.
Source: www.archdaily.com I.M Pei The Johnson Museum of Art
Photo by author, Elizabeth Street building
The repetition of units creates a sense of exagerrated mass. The volume of the monolithic mass trancends the individual, favouring the wholeness of the imminent large surface.
Photo by author, Cityscape Flagstaff Garden view