DESIGN AS AN ITERATIVE PROCESS
My architectural journey has been guided by a profound belief in the synergy of art, science, and technology. I have cultivated my skills and knowledge in both physical modeling and AI-driven design, viewing them not as separate disciplines, but as complementary tools for pushing the boundaries of architectural innovation.
Physical models have always been an integral part of my creative process. These tactile representations allow me to explore spatial relationships, proportions, and materiality in a way that is both visceral and immediate. They serve as a tangible canvas for ideation, enabling me to refine concepts and engage with clients and stakeholders in a tangible and relatable manner.
In parallel, I have harnessed the power of AI to augment my design capabilities. AI-driven algorithms, when integrated with architectural software, provide a vast landscape for generating and evaluating design variations swiftly and efficiently. I have honed my proficiency in using AI tools to analyze site-specific data, user preferences, and sustainability parameters, ensuring that my designs are not just aesthetically pleasing but also functional and environmentally responsible.
Revit has been my primary digital canvas for translating these concepts into detailed architectural plans. My proficiency with Revit allows me to seamlessly transition from the conceptual phase to the technical development of projects. This proficiency ensures that the innovative forms and ideas generated through physical models and AI algorithms can be realized in practical and executable designs.
I am passionate about a holistic approach to design projects ranging from residential developments to large-scale commercial spaces. These experiences have honed my ability to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams, communicate complex ideas effectively, and meet project deadlines while maintaining the highest standards of design excellence.
INTRODUCTION
The hero’s journey is a plan used by film makers to create a narrative a term described by experts in the industry as journey.
The green lines in the images below were extracted from the scenery as individuals walk on a path towards a specific destination. The extracted trace is arranged in a form generating system using a digital 3D modeling software called Rhinoceros aka Rhino.
The images on the right half of the drawings below are combinations of these traces drawn digitally in plan, section and perspective.
FIGURE 1: GRADUATE THESIS / CONCEPT HYPOTHESIS
PHYSICAL SPATIAL EXPLORATION
Moving forward, the traces extracted from the 3D digital model are then cut into acrylic glass using a laser cutter and rearranged in a physical model using a numerical order. The colored outlines facilitate viewing a form from the outside and the void created inside by the series of traces in cut acrylic glass as shown in the images below.
Ultimately resulting in a transformation of the device into a form generator. A device which significantly depends on the sequential order of the individual acrylic frames. Any form generated here would depend on the meticulously arrangement of the frames drawn earlier.
Change a single frame and the form will be transformed completely. This was parametric design in a physical model so to speak.
FIGURE 2: GRADUATE THESIS / PHYSICAL MODEL STUDIES
DIGITAL EXPLORATION
The series of traces are connected using lofts to establish a shelled space and form. Returning to working in the digital platform Rhino, the device is transformed in two: Stationary and mobile frames.
A system mimicking a film directors’ ability to dictate a narrative in any particular order or sequence that could result in different variations of the same story, think of Pulp Fiction.
Forms generated that seemed ideal were chosen for three reasons: rigid frame like structure, interlocking planar and volumetric elements, and a variation in levels that would facilitate multiple program opportunities on site.
FIGURE 3: GRADUATE THESIS / DIGITAL MODEL STUDIES
EXPLORATION THRESHOLD
A common belief in the realms of digital design is that if you can’t build your own design as a physical model then your design does not deserve to be built in the real world. It was time for our new form derived through the digital exploration to come to life. A physical model tested would allow me to explore spatial potential, structural capability and realistic functionality.
The model form is categorically resolved by zoning prospective spaces. In Filmmaking, there are three P’s which are fundamental towards the delivery of a successful film narrative: Production, Post-production and Presentation.
FIGURE 4: GRADUATE THESIS / INTEGRATION
FUNCTIONAL DELEGATION
This multifunctional building is designed to cater to the entire spectrum of audiovisual production. The production space is meticulously crafted for shooting, providing a versatile environment equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and adaptable settings to bring creative visions to life. Adjacent to it lies the postproduction zone, a hub dedicated to editing, where professionals can refine and perfect their projects.
FIGURE 4: GRADUATE THESIS / IMPLEMENTATION
Finally, the presentation space takes center stage, serving as an immersive showroom to exhibit the final cinematic and visual creations, ensuring a seamless workflow from inception to presentation within a single architectural masterpiece.
Here’s an example of the building being used as a backdrop:
As the sleek speedboat roared through the narrow, twisting waterways, the facility can serve as a breathtaking backdrop to this heart-pounding chase, its gleaming glass facade reflecting the adrenaline-fueled pursuit. With each daring maneuver, the movie scene becomes an electrifying accomplice in the high-stakes race against time.
FIGURE 6: GRADUATE THESIS / FUNCTIONAL VARIATIONS
CONCLUSION
The final form of the architectural physical model serves as a valuable tool for exploring spatial efficiency and structural distributions. By meticulously constructing the model to scale, architects and designers can physically manipulate and experiment with the layout, helping them optimize space utilization. Additionally, this model aids in assessing structural integrity and load distribution, allowing for informed adjustments and reinforcements to enhance safety and stability. It offers a tangible, three-dimensional perspective that digital simulations often lack, fostering a deeper understanding of how various elements interact within the architectural design. In essence, it becomes a hands-on laboratory for refining spatial and structural aspects, ultimately leading to more efficient and robust architectural solutions.
FIGURE 7: GRADUATE THESIS / AMERICAN UNIVERSITY OF SHARJAH
I had used a film structure to define theexperience within an architectural project. Could I create a narrative usingarchitectural elements alone? Therefore, I decided to tell the hero’s journeyusing my vanishing point machine. The video shows a journey through an unknowntunnel like space. Occasionally, obstacles interrupt this steady movement. Graduallygaining pace, the movement transforms into an aggressive back and forth motionto signal conflict with the struggle intensifying in a more complicated space.
Finally, the conflict is resolved when the movement begins deceleration into acalmer environment.
On the 20th of November 2016 I had the privilege of presenting my Architectural design, the Film making center to his highness sheikh Mansoor al Maktoum of Dubai at the 2016 youngartist awards.