Modeling: Reducing, Testing, Experiencing Architecture

Abstract

The seminar investigates a long term tradition of modeling in architecture dedicated to measure building’s technical performances.Through weakly readings and class discussion, we will explore different ways to experience architecture at little scale. Conveying virtual and empirical tools, aesthetic and technical goals, the practice of modeling allow a transversal reading on architectural history.

Objective

Enlarge a background of historical knowledge and architectural culture. Developing a critical reflexion on techniques of representation. Importantly bring to attention the value of fabricating in the process of architectural conceptualization.

Content

The seminar focuses on the fabrication of architectural models not just as miniaturized buildings, but rather as ways to observe their environmental proprieties. Each year, a particular aspect of environmental sciences will be studied. Starting from the realm of architectural acoustics, we will observe, on the one hand, various ways of testing the behavior of sound within reduced models. From the schlieren photographies, allowing a material visualization of sound, to the 1:10 acoustic models, going through the ripple tank and light beam methods, an empirical tradition of reduced built volumes allowed the study of sound reflection. On the other hand, we will explore how digital tools, through parametric modeling, allowed virtual simulations of architectural projects. Both methods offers ways for technically anticipating and testing the acoustic result of architecture by synthesizing the complexity of a built project and connecting with a nineteenth century tradition of technical models concieved for experiencing building performances. Despite a shared way of thinking, virtual and empirical tools are nowadays used in a complementary way: the friction between these two approaches will be the overall object of the seminar.

Resources