Ardesign Reviewer
Ardesign Reviewer
● Definition:
○ Architectural form represents the interface between mass and space. It
encompasses textures, materials, light modulation, shade, color, and other
elements that articulate space.
○ The quality of architecture is determined by the designer's skill in combining
and relating these elements in both interior and exterior spaces.
Transformation of Form
● Key Principles:
○ Unity / Duality: Cohesiveness or interplay between opposing elements.
○ Rhythm / Repetition: Creating a sense of movement through repeated
elements.
○ Scale: The size relationship between elements and their context.
○ Proportion: The harmonious relationship of parts within a whole.
○ Contrast: Juxtaposition of different elements to highlight differences.
○ Balance / Harmony: Equilibrium between elements.
○ Vitality: Energy and dynamism in design.
○ Dynamism: Sense of movement or activity.
○ Restraint / Repose: Calmness and control in design.
○ Definition / Strength: Clear and strong expression of elements.
○ Accentuation: Emphasis on certain elements.
○ Hierarchy: Arrangement of elements to imply importance.
○ Gradation: Gradual changes in size, color, or form.
Organization of Form
● Process:
○ Combining different forms in various manners to create visual patterns in
structures.
○ A unified composition is achieved by merging discrete elements into a
cohesive whole.
● Space Requirements:
○ More target users and processes require more space, impacting building
footprint or height.
● Natural Light and Fresh Air:
○ Access to natural elements is crucial for habitable spaces.
● Accessibility and Circulation:
○ Ease of wayfinding and flow of processes within the building.
Case Studies
● Bullitt Building:
○ Design studies focused on reducing artificial lighting and mechanical
air-conditioning by optimizing form to gather more indirect light.
● Guggenheim Museum:
○ Design directs visitor experience by controlling sightlines and movement
through the building. The intended path guides visitors in a continuous
art-viewing experience, illustrating the principle of form influencing function.
● Definition:
○ Green buildings are structures designed to be environmentally responsible
and resource-efficient throughout their entire lifecycle. This includes
considerations at every stage from site selection to design, construction,
operation, and maintenance.
○ Key Areas:
■ Siting: Geographic considerations of the site.
■ Design: Architectural planning and layout.
■ Construction: Use of materials, embodied energy, and construction
techniques.
■ Operation & Maintenance: Operational energy efficiency.
Site Planning
Design
● Overview:
○ A net zero energy office building located in Seattle.
○ Recognized for its sustainable performance and surpassing the Living
Building Challenge (LBC).
○ Awarded a green building certificate in January 2015.
● Design Strategies:
○ Set Aggressive Goals: Aim for net zero energy consumption.
○ Analyze Site and Climate: Understand local environmental conditions to
inform design strategies.
○ Design for Reduced Demand: Optimize building form and envelope to
minimize energy needs.
○ Use Efficient Equipment: Incorporate smart systems to manage energy
usage efficiently.
○ Use Renewable Energy: Rely on solar and geothermal energy sources.
○ Verify Performance: Continuously monitor and adjust based on actual
energy consumption vs. projections.
● Building Form/Shape:
○ Develop multiple models to maintain thermal comfort despite varying external
temperatures.
● Building Envelope:
○ Control solar gains and heat loss while ensuring natural lighting and
ventilation.
○ Implement vertical fenestration to enhance daylight penetration without
excessive heat gain.
○ Use pre-design analysis to optimize insulation and window performance.
● Energy Sources:
○ Utilize solar energy and geothermal energy to meet the building’s energy
needs.
○ Ensure that energy production from these sources exceeds energy
consumption.
Verify Performance
● Performance Monitoring:
○ Compare actual energy consumption with predictions to ensure the building
meets net zero energy goals.
○ Analyze the performance of photovoltaic panels and other renewable energy
systems to verify that they produce enough energy to offset consumption.