This study was a series of short investigations into different ways of answering the question, “what is architecture?”

The project is the culmination of a full semester’s worth of exploration through a variety of mediums and philosophies. The short exercises were collaged for one single composition, which was then fed to the geometric depth estimation model ZoeDepth. The result was sculpted based on ridges and high points, resulting in a system where the designer employs their agency on the sculpture while still using generative tools.

Gestural, expressive moments are displayed in the sculpture, taking the original geometry and Drawing over it to bring out the more dramatic, visually appealing features. These drawings are used as Sculpting techniques to maximize the fluidity and movement in the installation. Once these designs are finalized and rendered, full scale fabrication of a chunk of the model is used as proof of concept. 3D printed molds and built forms are filled with Casting material and mounted on an aluminum and oak frame.

This installation is an expressive, abstracted visualization of the answer to the quesetion, “what is architecture?” The answer is as follows: Architecture is both a design (a space, detail, condition, or even an object) AND a compelling presentation to communicate and sell that design. A design shown with poor presentation dies before it lives, and a beautiful presentation of a meaningless project displays emptiness in high resolution.

The project applies these principles through a novel design process, use of new technologies, realistic renders, linework drawings, and full scale/real material fabrication.