Architecture & Urban Design III (ARCH 5001) – Agents of Change: Automation and Design of the Envelope

Related Staff : Martin Riese

Studio Instructor: Martin Riese
Computational Tutorials: Evan Levelle
Students: Cai Hongkui; Chan Pak Ho; Chang Fu Qi; Kido Ryoyu Andreas; Lau Wai Lap; Lo Wai Kin; Lui Kwok Yiu; Ma Chiu Yu; Tang Chi Chun; Wong Ho Lun; Wong Hung Chuen

STUDIO AGENDA

This studio researched and explored the integration and manifestation of automation into the process of designing architecture.  The starting point for the use of automation tools was the management of “overall project control geometry” and the directly interconnected detailed instantiation and assembly of the actual elements of the building envelope into that framework.  Alternatives to the traditional assumptions about orthogonality and unchallenged mechanical repetition were sought, and these drove the search for viable languages of mass customization that remain appropriately informed by the practical requirements of specific projects.  Solutions were intended to be highly defensible in performance-based terms.

The result was intended to be real and deliverable alternatives to the predictable and over used current façade status quo that falls short in delivering adequate performance, individual expression and appropriately specific cultural identity.  The intent was to use automation to drive meaningful variation whilst at the same time improving performance, efficiency and sustainability.  A renewed, collaborative quest was undertaken for a more innovative and “beautiful” built environment.  The studio was intended to directly inform the students’ imminent transition into architectural practice.

During the reading week, this studio participated in a PRD factory tour trip. A number of key factories relevant to the industry of the built environment were visited.