Architecture Program
Date of this Version
May 2008
Abstract
Historically, the default space of architectural design has been one of neutral Cartesian coordinates. However, in other design fields, (such as aeronautical, automotive and naval) the design space is conceived as an environment of forces and motion such as flow, turbulence, viscosity and drag. Architecture, as a static object, has much to gain from a design process that con¬ceives of form in a virtual environment in motion.
The focus of this thesis will be to develop an iterative architectural design process that utilizes techniques in animation software. The purpose of generating architectural form through animation software is to allow architectural form to be influenced by a virtual environment that more closely resembles our own: that is one of forces and motion.
Once developed, this process will then be applied to the design of a new mixed-use high rise, located on Q Street, between 13th and 14th streets, in Lincoln, Nebraska. The initial programmatic elements for this building consist of a parking garage, to occupy the rear of the site, street level retail space and a mixed-use, commercial and residential tower. This project has the po¬tential to add to the city an influential and culturally relevant work that will, in turn, generate economic growth. A contemporary piece will fit in with Lincoln’s eclectic mix of architectural styles as well as add to its traditional of excellence.