Designing with Models

A Studio Guide to Architectural Process Models

Criss B. Mills

• Publisher: Wiley
• Year: 2011
• ISBN:
  9780470947418
• Edition: 3
• Topic: Architecture
• Subtopic: Architecture Design

The newly updated guide to design process modeling techniques

Designing with Models, Third Edition is the revised, step-by-step guide to basic and advanced design process modeling. This comprehensive text explains the process from start to finish, and has been expanded to include up-to-date information on digital modeling programs and rapid prototyping processes. The impact of this new wave of 3D modeling technology is examined through interviews and numerous examples from renowned architects. Along with many new student projects, this new Third Edition features information on cutting-edge digital imaging equipment and design software, as well as many new process models from celebrated professional projects.

Architect Criss Mills acquaints architecture and design professionals with essential modeling terms, design processes, equipment, materials, and construction methods. Fully updated with nearly 200 new photos and twenty-six new projects from students and firms, Designing with Models, Third Edition walks readers through the basics of:

• Material and tool selection
  
  

• Construction techniques
  
  

• Determining scale
  
  

• Generating ideas
  
  

• Exploring design processes and alternatives
  
  

• Modifying design work directly on the model
  
  

• Developing design work through modeling scale
  
  

Offering increased emphasis on transitioning from hand craft to digital craft, this thorough Third Edition also provides easy-to-follow guidelines for modeling with advanced tools and materials, demonstrating how to:

• Master the modeling of curvilinear components with planar material and casting techniques
  
  

• Explore ideas with mixed media, such as wood, found objects, metal rods and screens, clay, and Plexiglas
  
  

• Work backwards from model information to produce 2D plan, section, and elevation drawings
  
  

• Record and communicate 3D design work
  
  

• Begin exploring the safe and effective use of power tools, such as belt sanders, table saws, drills, band saws, and welding equipment
  
  

Chapter One

Model Types

Typical Model Types Employed in the Design Process

This chapter sets out the terminology for models as to their use in the development sequence and typology. The models are classified in a way that describes their common usage in architectural settings with examples of each.

Model Types

Models are referred to in a variety of ways, and terms may be used interchangeably in different settings. Although there is no standard, the definitions in the following lists are commonly used. All of the model types discussed (sketch, massing, development, etc.) are considered to be study models, including those used for formal presentations. As such, their purpose is to generate design ideas and serve as vehicles for refinement. They can range from quick, rough constructions to resolved models. Whatever state they are in, the term study model implies that they are always open to investigation and refinement.

Study models can be considered to belong to two different groups: primary models and secondary models. The primary set has to do with the level or stage of design evolution, and the secondary set refers to particular sections or aspects of the project under focus. A secondary model may be built as a primary model type, depending on the level of focus. For example, a model used to develop interior spaces would be thought of as an interior model but would also be a sketch model, development model, or presentation model, depending on its level of focus.

Primary Models

Primary models are abstract in concept and are employed to explore different stages of focus.

Sketch

Diagram

Concept

Massing

Solid/Void

Development

Presentation/Finish

Secondary Models

Secondary models are used to look at particular building or site components.

Site Contour

Site Context/Urban

Entourage/Site Foliage

Interior

Section

Façade

Framing/Structure

Detail/Connections

Sketch Models

Sketch models constitute the initial phase of study models. They are like three-dimensional drawing and sketching—a medium for speed and spontaneity.

Sketch models generally are not overly concerned with craft but with providing a quick way to visualize space. They are intended to be cut into and modified as exploration proceeds. These models may also be produced as a quick series to explore variations on a general design direction. Although many of the models shown throughout the book are produced as expressive explorations, sketch models are also valuable when built with greater precision and used to explore qualities of alignment, proportion, and spatial definition.

Sketch models are generally built at relatively small scales from inexpensive materials such as chipboard or poster board.

Several examples of sketch models are shown, ranging from small building propositions to ideas of space and site relationships.

Sketch model
Small sketches can be made early in the design phase to explore basic building organizations and reflect general relationships of program circulation and architectural concerns.

Sketch model
Sketch models can explore basic relationships among a number of program components (actual size, 11″).

Sketch model
Sketch models can carry genetic information about the way building spaces will flow and read. In this case, the model was a translation of drawing exercises that began incorporating the program (actual size, 6″).

Sketch model
Sketch models can explore conceptual ideas to translate ideas. In this case, the model explores ideas about program spaces and light.

Sketch model
Sketch models can look at ideas of path and movement. Pictured is a small model using folding as a formal means to establish space.

Sketch model
Sketch models can articulate base drawings and diagrams. Beginning sketch designs look at a scheme of crossing paths. Variations are explored to refine the initial direction.

Sketch model
Sketch models can explore basic organizational principles. Above is a small sketch of a circular scheme that looks at the way layers can be used to define the space.

Sketch model
Sketch models can explore gestures and continuity. Pictured is an initial folded gesture that e...