PART B:CRITERIA DESIGN

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B.1RESEARCH FIELDBiomimicry

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For the remainder of the AIR studio course, the research field in which I have chosen and would like to focus my design on is Biomimicry. It was only recently that I took an interest into Biomimicry because of its relation to sustainability. I feel that Biomimicry is an essential in reducing the impact of defuturing in the build world, and by pursuing a further understanding in this research field, I believe I can be a part of the designers who wish to change the way in which we design buildings.

Not only have I chosen this research field for the purpose of changing course of defuturing, but because I find it interesting in the fact that designers can be influenced by biological processes found from a variety of species, such as learning from humpback whales to improve efficiency on wind power. [1] The influence is around us, we just have to challenge ourselves to learn. IMAGE 1 - ABOVE: WIND TURBINE ADOPTING WHALE FIN

IMAGE 2 - BELOW: CLOSE UP OF TUBERCLES ON FIN

B.2CASE STUDY 1.0

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The Morning Line

- Aranda Lasch

This piece of work, designed by Aranda Lasch and collaborated with artist Matthew Ritchie and structural designs from Arup AGU, exemplifies the architecture of innate objects through the use of its complex geometry. The 8m high, 20m long monument consists of fractal circular forms which are compiled together to create an abstract form of art in the landscape. The form of this frame has been built to create an open cellular structure, which can be noted as being an anti-pavilion, where there is no such thing as enclosure.[2]

The truncated tetrahedrons have been deconstructed to help create this complex structure, and were made possible by the use of parametric design. Each of the components used in the design were regular shapes being broken down in truncated forms, which helps create complex visual aesthetics. The complexity of designs is becoming much more prevalent in architecture, as the computation process allows for such geometries to be experimented with. In this process, the imagination of the designer is tested, as there is a wide range of forms to create with a variety of computational functions.

IMAGE 3 - ABOVE: MORNING LINE PROJECT

IMAGE 4 - BELOW: MORNING LINE PROJECT SECTION

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The overall definition of this recursive process begins with a basic polygon as the main form. For each of different species created, the amount of segments and radius has been deliberately changed as part of the experimental process of identifying new forms of recursion. As shown to the left, each outcome generated undertook minor iterations, yet still created major differences in shape.

Following this process is similar to what Aranda Lasch conducted during her design process, as the truncated tetrahedrons follow a complex technique in which the original shapes could be amended with. Like the different polygons used in my exploration, the shapes created cast symmetry and an intrinsic pattern.

Based on what has been done, the design criterion in which I have decided on is the notion of representing patterns and symmetry. By combining these two aspects, the design can push towards an outcome that is visually appealing in a simple manner, veering away from the idea of complexity.

IMAGE 5 - LEFT: ARANDA CASE STUDY EXPLORATIONS

B.3CASE STUDY 2.0Waffle type 2

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For the purpose of the second case study, I have selected the Waffle type 3 project as part of my research for developing a new algorithm. This project is also interesting to look at in relation to the site I have chosen on Merri creek, as it holds some potential for further design. The Waffle type2 project consists of many different functions, such as brep wireframes, vector lines and path mapping. Each of these components is part of a large cluster that forms this waffle type. The functions in this cluster can be manipulated to form other types of slabs, such as the waffle type 3. This waffle slab begins with a series of other functions which are then connected to the same set of functions used to create the waffle type 2.

The design intent for this waffle type is quite extensive. This type of waffle may have been created as part of a cladding system used on buildings or as part of the interior design in the building, similar to the BanQ restaurant. It really depends on what scale this definition is being looked at. If the waffle is observed as a whole, it can be understood as being a simple design for a building, however, on a smaller scale, this waffle can be a part of many other small waffle components which form another sort of system.

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The reason why I have selected the waffle type 2 is because of its purpose on my site, which is the Labyrinth. The Labyrinth is a smaller, more enclosed area of the site where people gather to perform the labyrinth walk or simply to just add and gaze at the wishing tree the inhabitants have created. The way in which this waffle has been formed bests represents a sort of shelter or a dome for those on the site, as the area has potential for growth, especially with the area being flocked with school kids and families.

IMAGE 6 - LEFT: ORIGINAL WAFFLE TYPE 2

Reverse-Engineered Waffle Type2

1. Create sphere in Rhino and reference in Grasshopper

2. Add box corners with lines as part of setting up planes to find waffle section

3. Setting up the planes to find the section through extruding and number series

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6. FINAL PRODUCTIMAGE 7 - ABOVE: COLLECTION OF REVERSE ENGINEER SHOTS

3. Setting up the planes to find the section through extruding and number series

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4. Making the final notches for the waffle by adding material thickness

5. Bake different planes to show connections of waffle

6. FINAL PRODUCTIMAGE 7 - ABOVE: COLLECTION OF REVERSE ENGINEER SHOTS

B.4TECHNIQUE DEVELOPMENT

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IMAGE 8 - BELOW: DIFFERENT SPECIES AND ITERATIONS

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IMAGE 8 - BELOW: DIFFERENT SPECIES AND ITERATIONS

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MERRI CREEK DEVELOPMENT

IMAGE 11 - ABOVE: THE LABYRINTH

IMAGE 9 - ABOVE: THE WISHING TREE

IMAGE 10 - ABOVE: PATH ALONG LABYRINTH

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Location

The Labyrinth lies along the merri creek, situated in the middle between two major roads, Heidelberg rd and the Eastern Freeway. The labyrinth is tucked away along the edge of a small cliff side that runs along the merri trail, making it a known spot for those trailing the path. Its location makes it the perfect environment for a social meeting as the area is surrounded by green vegetation, enclosing the space for the purpose of a labyrinth.

My Response

The existing Labyrinth site is also home to a wishing tree, in which people visit to place parchments, notes or gifts, as part of their wish. By observing this part of the site, I found the main stakeholders to be children (predominantly school children), local residents and visitors, as well as including the wildlife that reside in the area, such as birds. In response to the stakeholders at hand, I would propose the idea of creating a more informed social space, which would include a possible shelter that can harbour people visiting the site.

I have also envisaged the idea of creating a geodesic dome that can surround the labyrinth with an oculus, creating an enclosed space for participants. I came across this idea whilst completing the labyrinth. I believe by creating a closure over the labyrinth, allowing fragmented sections of light to enter, will enhance the experience while completing the course.

The only issue I would possible have with this idea is children using the dome as a playground, in which they will begin to climb, creating a hazard on the site.

IMAGE 12/13 - ABOVE/BELOW: PROPOSED IDEA FOR DOME

FORM OVER LABYRINTH

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NJIT Biodegradable Pavilion, Toronto 2014

IMAGE 14 - ABOVE: BIODEGRADABLE PAVILION

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This pavilion comprised of Graduate students who have challenged themselves to re-imagine the sukkah, which symbolizes the frailty and transience of life during the Jewish festival of Sukkot.[3] The pavilion consists of structural ribs which are made of sawn-timber, as well as incorporating the idea of biodegradable materials for the cladding system, such as a corn-based foam. By doing so, the users of the pavilion are able to feel a sense of connection with nature and to enhance their

experience on the site. This is an idea I would like to incorporate into my own design, but not through the corn-based cladding, however through the usage of foliage which may grow through the system of ribs in my design. By doing so, I believe I will be able to further enhance the experience one would normally achieve whilst completing the labyrinth.

IMAGE 15 - ABOVE: INTERIOR VIEW

IMAGE 16 - ABOVE: CORN-FOAM FOR ORGANIC CLADDING

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B.3 (Continued)CASE STUDY 2.0ICD/ITKE Research Pavilion at the University of Stuttgart

IMAGE 17 - ABOVE: RESEARCH PAVILION

IMAGE 18/19 - ABOVE/RIGHT: MORNING GLORY FLOWERS

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The ICD/ITKE Research pavilion is one of many designs which incorporates the idea of biomimicry into the built form. The project analysed several types of biological structures which can be integrated into the pavilions modular form. One key interest of biological structures was the sand dollar, a sub-species of the sea urchin, which inevitably provided the basic principles of the bionic structure.[4]

The idea of playing with polygonal plates which link together to create a skeletal form was generally the basis of my idea for Merri creek. The structure I have intended follows a series of interconnected beams, which create a dome like structure. By looking at the Research pavilion, I am able to transfigure my idea of a ribbed type dome to something a bit more elaborate, such as a geodesic dome.

For the dome, I would also like to incorporate Blue Morning Glory flowers for an organic cladding system, as this type of flower is a vine type, which will grow in most environments across Melbourne.[5] These vines do require support for them to twine on, hence why I believe a dome which consists of interconnected beams will allow for growth. By providing an organic material as part of the cladding system, it will provide shade for users participating in the labyrinth and maintain cool environment in the summer.

IMAGE 20- ABOVE: INTERIOR OF RESEARCH PAVILION

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B.4 (Continued) Geodesic Dome development

IMAGE 21 - ABOVE: COLLECTION OF GEODESIC DEVELOPMENT

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For the Geodesic domes developed, I looked into the idea of creating openings to allow light to penetrate the interior space. As the interior space will be the labyrinth, I believe penetrating light into the dome will further enhance the experience one will have while participating in the labyrinth activity. With the addition of Morning Glory vines growing allowing the structure, the interior will receive different shades of light in different seasons.

IMAGE 21 - ABOVE: COLLECTION OF GEODESIC DEVELOPMENT

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B.5 Technique: PrototypesMaterialization/Dimensions

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Materialization

- Structural plywood timber, similar to the material used on the Stuttgart Research Pavilion, can be used as it better suits the natural environment in which it will be placed, similar to the dome designed by Danish architects Kristoffer Tejlgaard and Benny Jepsen. [6]

- The triangular panels can be fixed together with a type of connector, either by tying it or bolting it.

- Prefabrication of the panels is key to the construction of the dome. Similar to the Research Pavilion in Stuttgart, the plywood panels used were prefabricated for ease of construction on site.

- For the geodesic dome, there are two main structures keeping it in place. The internal skeletal formation will help hold down the exterior skeleton, which will be acting as the main façade. The internal skeleton creates the extra support against lateral loads

- Assembling the dome with begin with the base, slowly connecting the triangular panels together, which will form the perimeter of the dome. From here on, the panels are attached one by one until the top ends meet.

HTTP://INHABITAT.COM/THE-PEOPLES-MEETING-DOME-DECONSTRUCTS-THE-GEODESIC-DOMES-SACRED-GEOMETRY/

IMAGE 22 - BELOW: DE-CONSTRUCTED GEODESIC DOME

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Dimensions

- The existing Labyrinth is approximately 15m in diameter from the east side to the west, and approximately 14m in diameter from the north side (entrance) to the south side.

- The dimensions in place for the dome will be set at an approximate of 16m by 14.5m, however, it is still in consideration as to whether I would like to create a flush finish with outer stones of the labyrinth or to create a gap between the outer stone and the interior skeleton of the dome.

IMAGE 23 - ABOVE: THE LABYRINTH

IMAGE 24 - ABOVE: DIMENSIONAL DRAWINGS

B.5 Technique: PrototypesFurther Development

Here I began applying the recursion script which was used for the Arana Lasch “Morning Line” Project. By doing so, it’ll help create intrinsic patterns and shades of light entering the

dome and onto the labyrinth itself.

I continued with the recursion process by modifying different inputs to create different sized triangles, as well as how many would be repeated. In the above case, I have populated a large amount of triangular panels which originated from the former structure. However, this iteration deemed difficult to model and difficult to incorporate into my design intent.

IMAGE 25 - BELOW: FURTHER DEVELOPMENT OF GEODESIC DOME

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In the next step, I added more panels for the internal skeletal structure for a more elaborate design. These panels also shared the same recursive functions as the exterior panels.

Lastly, I modified the recursion process for the internal panels to give a different look on the design. Leaving both the exterior and interior different in recursive panels.

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B.5 Technique: PrototypesModel shots

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IMAGE 26 - ABOVE: COLLECTION OF MODEL DEVELOPMENT

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IMAGE 27 - ABOVE: FINAL PROTOTYPE MODEL

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IMAGE 27 - ABOVE: FINAL PROTOTYPE MODEL

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B.6 Technique: Proposal

IMAGE 28 - ABOVE: INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR PANELS

IMAGE 29 - BELOW: FINAL GEODESIC DOME

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After a few minor iterations done to both the interior and exterior panels, the design now satisfies my selection criteria. One of the key aspects that will be mentioned during the interim presentation is the reasoning behind the different openings and how organic material is able to flourish on it. For what I have selected in my design intent, I intend on allowing light to penetrate the dome, as I believe this will further enhance the experience for users who are partaking in the labyrinth activity. The dome will be an extension to the existing site, hence why

this structure serves no other purpose but to create a stimulating experience, rather than be a distraction to what is already on site. As the site I have chosen is relatively small in comparison to neighbouring areas, I felt my approach to be appropriate in a sense of it being an extension to the site, rather than an additional piece. A shelter may have been possible, but to me it wouldn’t be as enlightening as a geodesic dome that changes its organic cladding with every season.

IMAGE 30 - ABOVE/BELOW: INTERIOR VIEW AND EXTERIOR VIEW

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B.7 Learning Objectives and Outcomes

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As part of the learning objectives for the course so far, I believe I have been able to develop a variety of skills regarding digital technologies as well as my understanding of parametric design. This course in particular has been the first time I have heavily been exposed to digital modelling and parametric design, which now I see the endless possibilities of design that can be created. Over the course I have tested my skills to generate a variety of designs, however, for the purpose of Merri creek, I believe I still have the capability of developing a more extensive design, as well as exploring other design possibilities.

Through this development, my skills in Rhino/Grasshopper have been growing at a steady pace. It may not be sufficient enough to create something complex or unique in its own way, however, I have gained enough skills with the 3D media to be able to explore different types of geometric and parametric modelling. As for digitally fabricating, I will be developing a further understanding of how certain models can be fabricated for the purpose of Part C.

The concept of Air and Architecture come together with the idea of showing dynamism and fluidity in the design and the concept. Trying to tackle this relationship has been a challenge for me in my design concept; however, it is something I am striving to push for in Part C.

A main learning objective of this course for me was the development of fundamental and foundational skills of programming through Grasshopper. In the beginning, Grasshopper seemed irrelevant in the course of Architecture and difficult to grasp, however, after challenging myself to complete several algorithmic tasks and design proposals, I believe I have laid down the foundations of design computation and developed a series of computational techniques in which I can further look into in and apply in the future.

IMAGE 31 - BELOW: RENDER OF GEODESIC DOME

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B.8 Appendix - Algorithmic Sketches

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References End of Part B: Criteria Design

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[1] Hamilton, T. (2008). Whale-Inspired Wind Turbines. from http://www.technologyreview.com/news/409710/whale-inspired-wind-turbines/

[2] Ritchie, M. (2010). The Morning Line. from http://www.tba21.org/augarten_activities/49/page_2

[3] Stott, R. (2015). NJIT Graduates Create A Biodegradable Pavilion For Sukkahville 2014. from http://www.archdaily.com/621551/njit-graduates-create-a-biodegradable-pavilion-for-sukkahville-2014/

[4] Frearson, A. (2011). ICD/ITKE Research Pavilion at the University of Stuttgart. dezeen magazine.

[5] Phipps, N. (2015). Growing Morning Glories: How to Grow Morning Glory Flowers. from http://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/vines/morning-glory/growing-morning-glories.htm

[6] Grozdanic, L. (2012). The People’s Meeting Dome Deconstructs the Geodesic Dome’s Sacred Geometry. Inhabitat.

1. http://assets.inhabitat.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/1/files/2010/07/whale.jpg

2.Ibid

3. https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5270/5882758562_2ec5a6b118_b.jpg

4. http://www.cambridgeliteraryreview.org/wp-content/uploads/3376593247_e0674d728e_b2.jpg

5 - 13. Authors own work: Bilal Hallak

14 . h t t p : // w w w . a r c h d a i l y . c o m / 6 2 15 5 1/ n j i t - g r a d u a t e s - c r e a t e - a - b i o d e g r a d a b l e - p a v i l i o n - f o r - s u k k a h v i l l e -2014/55341ae8e58ecee0080002a7_njit-graduates-create-a-biodegradable-pavilion-for-sukkahville-2014_image_one-jpg/

15. Ibid

16. Ibid

17. http://www.dezeen.com/2011/10/31/icditke-research-pavilion-at-the-university-of-stuttgart/

18. https://gardendrama.files.wordpress.com/2012/02/morning-glories.jpg

19. https://interiordesignerparadise.files.wordpress.com/2013/09/good-morning-glory1.jpg

20. http://www.dezeen.com/2011/10/31/icditke-research-pavilion-at-the-university-of-stuttgart/

21. Authors own work: Bilal Hallak

22. http://inhabitat.com/the-peoples-meeting-dome-deconstructs-the-geodesic-domes-sacred-geometry/meeting-dome-in-denmark-kristoffer-tejlgaard-benny-jepsen-1/?extend=1

23-31. Authors own work: Bilal Hallak

Algorithmic sketches: Authors own work: Bilal Hallak

IMAGE REFERENCES

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