Geometric Variations, Case Study Models as Architecture Design Studio Methodology

Architecture Design Studio 4 explores models of variation based on case studies to develop designs that adapt to context and climate. During the spring semester, of 2024 ADs[4] at Heriot-Watt University Dubai developed a project-based teaching methodology that relies on integrating computational design with case study model constructions as a medium for project design.
This poster focuses on the process of variation model-making that students use as a challenge-based method. Analysing 10 case studies of well-known park projects the students digitally built what we call a singularity model, a limited system that condenses the fundamental ideas of the project studied for it to become the seed of their design outcome. The methodology consists of (1) a geometric construction of the singularity model, (2) the development of organizational variations, and (3) the deployment of the singularity model on the project’s site.
This methodology implies an abstract process based on design precedents that students conduct both to learn from the case studies and to develop their own design strategies. The study presents each phase on the models of variation-based processes.