Relating to the ‘real’ Perceptions of Computer Aided and Physical Modelling

Abstract

Apart from the drawing -which is essentially a two dimensional interpretation or representation of (aspects of) a design -the architectural model is an extremely effective design medium. Characteristic of the model is that, like the building itself, it is a three dimensional object which can be perceived dynamically, even though it is usually 'scaled down' to a manageable size. A typical aspect of classic -physical -model making is that the construction of the model is to a large extent a building process in its own right. However, because of the scale factor the design has to be 'interpreted' in such a way that it can actually be made and will 'come across' as a model. This involves a level of reduction of the 134 eCAADe 20 [design e-ducation] Education and Curricula, Traditional and E-ducation Areas. Session 03

Proceedings of the 21st International Conference on Education and Research in Computer Aided Architectural Design in Europe (eCAADe)

“…So perhaps the students should try to improve their skills and imagination in using CAAD modeling effects for further work with traditional media because "(…) drawback of the exclusive use of the computer is that the results are often perceived as being too perfect: too »clean«, lacking individual expression and the charm of a handmade artifact." (Breen et al, 2002). Or maybe we should forget about this problem, as a part of the CAAD history, disappearing slowly together with the appearance of more and more powerful computers as well as new software capabilities.…”