Group (X) Review
In our forth workshop rotation we were posed to review the “vehicles” intended to function from the respected hotels (dystopia and Utopia). In this rotation we were tasked to review group (x). At first glance we were startled to find that there was a limitation on which specific materials could be employed within the project. More specifically, seaweed and rice paper would form key components of their design. The group was very proficient in acknowledging the limitations of the materials and as a result, the models produced were perceived as being “delicate”; although one might argue the models were “structurally unsound”. The group’s ability to introduce us to there project or a Flying Fox like design operated manually by the migrants will explore renewable energy thorough sheer man power. This contradicted the lantern project positively as it remained a constant variable in terms of non-renewable vehicle.

However the purpose based integration of seaweed as a method to improve the design of the lantern was also elegantly completed. This was greater epitomised through the attachment of a unique bucket compromising of wood and seaweed in order to facilitate the passengers. The Group was also very successful in the development of a module through the usage of rice paper, rightfully characterised by its delicate yet fragile state suggests the group has mastered the ability to express form and shape through the conditioning of the paper via water. The Group was also expected to compile research, which would assist them in the development of the vehicles. This was necessary as it suggest the group was well informed and this was present throughout there presentation.

Another key component of this workshop was to produce a simple yet elegant form through three-dimensional printing. This was also required to maintain form yet function within the vehicles. In terms of the greater function there was a high degree of focus on the development of ports/ docking stations for the vehicles. The Group was able to integrate their ports with a high degree of purpose within the mainstay of the hotels. This also complemented the design/ aesthetic aspects of the hotels whilst maintaining the ability to function realistically. The docking stations were represented very well and it was apparent that the group developed the stations as they progressed through the workshop, as it would cater for the exact requirements of the group.  

Collectively we were impressed by the layout and theoretical approach to the models developed by group (X), however it was impervious that the group needed to maintain higher standards in the physical strength of the modules. Group (X) was well informed and dictated the requirements very fluently.  
The following animation of the Plant's which were nurtured and maintained throughout the design project is a showcase of growth and a incremental observation of developing nature.

First attemp of matrix

Docking station for Dystopian Hotel


Docking station matrix

Matrixie's


The matrixes were a key component in the production of our hotels as it showcased the development throughout the project. This was beneficial as it provided us with enhanced understanding of various aspects of our hotel design. (form, materiality ect.)

Plant stop animations

This plant survived the whole semester without much maintenance. It didn't grow, but it did twisted with the sun and one of the stalks started to slump.
On the other hand, this plant shrivels up without any water, but has managed to survive as well, with the addition of a few weeds.

 The grass needs low maintenance, I rarely water it but it survived . On other hand , Cyclamen requires watering everyday .

Material Cards


Peer Review - Untitled Ink



In their last workshop for design, Untitled Ink was tasked with making two staircases for each of their hotels. Their first design for the dystopian hotel, consisted of sharp, irregular shapes that protruded out from the main body of the building. The visual experience of these jagged, angular stairs in itself successfully created the feeling of tension and danger, backed by their presentation pages of figures jumping from one stair to another. In a clever touch, the stairs doubled as the rooms for the hotel. A “trapped door” on the stairs allowed for access without intrusion. It also heightened as it protruded out to create space for the guests.  Inside the hotel was a mesh to climb - an alternate option to getting to the plant room above.


 The Utopian hotel was also cleverly designed. The handrail of the stair case was built into the wall of the hotel. This subtle and elegant detail would lead the guest up the spiral stairway into their Utopian plant room, a space for relaxation. Each hotel accommodated only one person, so the guest would enjoy their own private facility.


 Untitled ink presented two thoughtful and detailed staircases. They had not just made them as separate components for their hotel, but integrated them in – which is crucial especially in the last workshop. We were shown through clear ideas, succinct ideas of their hotel and how they related to their respective buildings. Their quality of work has remained at a high level, with all the A3’s displayed. This included matrixes and material cards for things like the CNC router which they had used for this workshop. Their CNC was one of the few successful ones and was waiting to be cut. Looking though their blog, they update it frequently and show the processes of building the staircases, and ideas they wanted to explore.  Untitled Ink seem like together and co-operative group, and this showed in their work and presentation.

Section drawing of the garage

Section drawing of the garage

This section shows the garage for the rocket and rocket's path to Utopian site.

Lantern Research

 

Hot air balloon research


Conceptual Section


123D Catch

Autodesk's 123D Catch is an amazing program that can generate 3D model from a set of 2D photos
 


This is a image I found online that demonstrate how a building is modeled using a set of photos
 
In the vehicle workshop we were asked to model a cup and a brush in 123D Catch. The aim was to get some inspiration for our garages.
 An abstract model of a cup that we used as a inspiration for our dystopian garage.


The model of the brush looks like a tunnel.