Watercube

parametric modelling

Spring 2022

#parametricmodelling

In this introductory course on design computation, we delved into the geometric and mathematical principles behind various architectural precedents. Using these principles as a foundation, we then aimed to recreate these precedents through the use of parametric modeling in Rhinoceros Grasshopper.

By constructing a parametric model, we were able to manipulate certain parameters to achieve desired outcomes, such as optimizing material cost. To further refine the design, the parametric model was then processed through a genetic algorithm, which utilized a fitness function to determine the optimal set of parameters.

The Water Cube, designed by Chris Bosse at PTW Architects, is an architectural masterpiece that showcases the combination of geometry and design. The building's unique shape is derived from an underlying geometric structure consisting of six tetrakaidecahedrons and two dodecahedrons. These basic shapes are multiplied and translated to create the overall volume of the building, and then further refined through precise trimming to achieve the iconic façade. The result is a building that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also a testament to the power of mathematical principles in architectural design.

The Water Cube, designed by Chris Bosse at PTW Architects, is an architectural masterpiece that showcases the combination of geometry and design. The building's unique shape is derived from an underlying geometric structure consisting of six tetrakaidecahedrons and two dodecahedrons. These basic shapes are multiplied and translated to create the overall volume of the building, and then further refined through precise trimming to achieve the iconic façade. The result is a building that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also a testament to the power of mathematical principles in architectural design.

weaire-phelan structure

While we initially assumed the Water Cube to be a Voronoi structure, we later discovered it to be based on the Weaire-Phelan Structure. The building's foundation is a unit comprising of 2 irregular pentagonal dodecahedrons and 6 tetrakaidecahedrons. This unit is then multiplied and trimmed with a box to achieve the building's distinct and recognizable façade.

In Grasshopper, we first established the script to create a dodecahedron and tetrakaidecahedron. Then, with the correct transformations and tiling, we managed to create a single unit of Weaire-Phelan structure.

weaire-phelan structure

While we initially assumed the Water Cube to be a Voronoi structure, we later discovered it to be based on the Weaire-Phelan Structure. The building's foundation is a unit comprising of 2 irregular pentagonal dodecahedrons and 6 tetrakaidecahedrons. This unit is then multiplied and trimmed with a box to achieve the building's distinct and recognizable façade.

In Grasshopper, we first established the script to create a dodecahedron and tetrakaidecahedron. Then, with the correct transformations and tiling, we managed to create a single unit of Weaire-Phelan structure.

JEREMY YEH

DIGITAL DESIGNER

ABOUT

ARCHIVE

JEREMY YEH

DIGITAL DESIGNER

ABOUT

ARCHIVE