university of oregon - school of architecture and allied arts - department of architecture

analog / digital studio – arch 484/584 fall 00 – prof. nancy cheng

Assignment 5: SEEING THROUGH STRUCTURE

OBJECTIVES

- To organize and articulate architectural form through structure

- To study ways of seeing spatial sequence in a structural model

DESCRIPTION

The site and user requirements motivate designers to create a fitting design solution. Creating a successful building requires organizing the components into a logical unity. To find suitable organizing patterns, architects can use the nature of structural systems.

For this assignment, you will plan a structural strategy, create a digital model of the major components and print out key experiential views.

PROCEDURE

SCHEMING

You can start in plan by refining a simple diagram of the program components. Looking at how a strong geometric order can reinforce your site and program goals. If possible consolidate as many pieces into a single form to give a unified identity to the complex.

Next, think about how the diagram could be richly realized in 3D forms. Sketching a series of axonometric possibilities can be helpful at this point. Challenge yourself to invert your initial assumptions and change solid to void, convex to concave. Spans can be from 12” to over 100’ long depending on the materials and context. See references for rules of thumb.

Third, think about how structural elements can reinforce spatial separation. The shapes of bearing walls, piers or columns can strengthen the character of your design. Remember that

interior partitions can be manipulated freely and don’t have to match the structure.

DIGITAL VISUALIZATION

Once you have drawn a schematic sketch, create a 3D model of your structure using the software of your choice. Start by creating simple symbols (blocks) of all elements, then assemble the symbols. You can substitute refined versions or alternates (i.e. trusses for beams) by redefining these symbols.

Once you have created a skeletal model, find and save key views: distant view from the road, entry view, major indoor and outdoor spaces. Create shaded or wireframe renderings to use for tracing over.

REQUIREMENTS

Bring sketches and work in progress printouts to class

Hand-in Wed., November 1^st: 1/8” or 1/16” scale axonometric view and 5 key perspective views.

REFERENCES

Allen, Edward & Joseph Iano, The Architect’s Studio Companion: Rules of Thumb for Preliminary Design, PP. 13-44.

Ching, Francis D.K. & Cassandra Adams, Building Construction Illustrated, Ch. 2, The Building