CHAPTER II - FORM

1.    PRIMARY SOLIDS

The primary solids are the extension or rotation of primary shapes to form a three-dimensional volume or form that is iconic and can be easily recognized.

   

The example is the Baltimore County Public Safety Building. The architecture features a cube, which is a primary solid produced by the extension of a square to create a simple yet unique form.

2.    DIMENSIONAL TRANSFORMATION

The transformation of solids into other forms through changing the width, length and height of forms, compressed or stretched out.

The example of dimensional transformation is the famous and iconic Louvre Museum in Paris. The volumetric form features a pyramid that’s been dimensionally transformed through compression. Its rather basic form combines with the transparent material creates an air of simplicity and sophistication.

3.    SUBTRACTIVE FORMS

The transformation of a form through removing a section of volume from it to create a new form that either retains its original identity or has a completely different look, depending on the removal process and sections.

 

The example is Sunwell Muse, an office building for a textile company. The architect intentionally subtracted a portion of volume that features curvy edges, to create a feminine and gentle look, which definitely suit the company’s identity and specialization in female clothing.

4.    ADDITIVE FORMS

The transformation of a form by adding other volumetric elements to it. The nature of the added elements determines whether the original form retains its identity or not.

CLUSTERED FORMS

One kind of additive forms, in which a number of forms are held together closely by proximity or functional needs. More flexible and functional than centralized forms.

The example is designed by the Japanese architect Kouichi Kimura. A collection of cuboids in different dimensions are put together and create a sense of diversity and creativity.

5.   FORMAL COLLISIONS OF GEOMETRY

It is the concept of arranging and combining two forms distinct in geometric nature to produce a new form. There can be multiple compositions and methods for the collision.

ROTATED GRID

The architecture is La Fabrique, an architectural school created by the rotation and addition of four cuboids. The process of rotation introduces elements of fun and unpredictability. It also enables different viewing angles.

 

IMAGE REFERENCE:

Arnett, B. (2002). Baltimore County Public Safety Building. Retrieved from https://www.flickr.com/photos/bretarnett/81816718

David Hogan Jr on Instagram: “The Louvre Museum in Paris is probably the 2nd most photographed place after the Eiffel Tower. Known as the world's largest museum, the…”. (2017). Retrieved from https://www.instagram.com/p/BUwDsBkgDFa/

Sunwell Muse | Takato Tamagami Architectural Design + Be-Fun Design. Retrieved from https://www.archilovers.com/projects/48715/sunwell-muse.html

FORM / kouichi kimura architects' scape house formed from combined boxes. (2014). Retrieved from https://www.designboom.com/architecture/form-kouichi-kimura-architects-scape-house-of-combined-boxes-10-19-2014/

Architecture School Shows Elegance of Engineering | ASCE. Retrieved from https://www.asce.org/magazine/20141021-architecture-school-shows-elegance-of-engineering/