TOWARD A COMPUTER-APPLIED DYNAMIC DWELLING DESIGN MODEL
---
MULTI-FAMILY WALK-UP APARTMENTS IN TAIWAN --by
WERN-BIN CHOU
Bachelor of architecture
National Cheng Kung University
Taiwan, R.O.C.
June, 1981
SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT
OF THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE DEGREE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN ARCHITECTURE STUDIES AT
THE MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
JUNE, 1985
Wern-Bin Chou
1985
The Author hereby grants to M. 1. T.
permission to reproduce and to distribute publicly copies
of this thesis document in whole or in part.
Signature
of
the
author
Wern-Bin Chou
Department of Architecture
May 10, 1985
Certified
by
N. J. Habraken, Prof. of Architecture
Thesis Supervisor
Accepted by
Julian Beinart, Chairman
Dpar tmental Comm
NS uiT
JF TCHI GGY
RotcHt
JUN 0 3 1985
MAS ACHUISETT
T
tee on Graduate Students
TOWARD A COMPUTER-APPLIED DYNAMIC DWELLING DESIGN MODEL
---
Multi-family Walk-up Apartments in Taiwan --by
Wern-Bin Chou
Submitted to the Department of Architecture on May 10, 1985 in partial fulfillment
of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Science in Architecture Studies.
ABSTRACT
It is the objectives of this study to explore the feasiblity of applying a
Here, the computer is applied to evaluate
computer in a dynamic dwelling design.
A specific type of
a support design by testing possible layout variations.
housing is chosen in the thesis to illustrate the application as well as to
explain the theoretical aspects of this model -- a computer-applied dynamic
dwelling design model. The thesis includes following five parts:
This is done by
1. To recognize the form of the specific type of housing.
the use
observing
by
realizing the backgrounds of the making as well as
and physical entity of the housing form.
2. To develope a system with explicitly-formulated rules on this specific
housing type from the recognition process.
3. To explain the way how to use the system in the decision-making and
design-reasoning process of a dynamic dwelling design.
An
4. To explore the application of a computer in the design process.
model.
design
this
example is given here to illustrate the using of
5. To present a theoretical discussion on the design model which explains
the insight backgrounds of the design model.
Thesis Supervisor: N. John Habraken
Title: Professor of Architecture
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
First,
I would like to express my heartiest gratitude to my
thesis advisor,
and
Prof.
John Habraken, for his invaluable guidance
thoughts provoking as well as his insightful
advices.
With
him, learning has been a most simulating experience.
Then,
Hu,
I want to thank Ming-Hung Wang,
Mark Gross,
Jone-Hui
for providing me with the background materials and helping me
with
conceptulizing and developing this
and
Christopher
Sawyer-Laucanno,
for
article;
their
Jill
helpful
Ackerman
English
editing.
I would also wish to thank my friends, Josephina Corn, ShangYu Hong,
Chi-Ta Lai,
Ming-Chrong Hwang,
Kuen-Shan Huang,
company
Shih-Ming Kao, Li-Hseuh Hung, You-Xian Zhu,
Cheng-Fung Lin, Tina Bahadori, Shen-Wei Huang,
Tai-Ping Ho, and Lee-Ming Lee.
Their Delightful
has made the process of writing this thesis
a
memorable
one.
Finally
and most importantly,
my deepest appreciation to na
family in their encouragements and constant supports which make my
education at M.I.T. possible.
CONTENT
ABSTRACT ........................................................ 2
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ................................................. 3
CONTENT ......................................................... 4
1. INTRODUCTION ..................... ..............
1.1 MOTIVATIONS AND OBJECTIVES
1.2 HYPOTHESIS
1.3 SCOPE AND FRAMEWORK
2. DESCRIPTION OF THE TYPE ..........
2.1
THE "MAKING" OF THIS TYPE
2.2
THE "FORM" OF THIS TYPE
..............
5
........*................... 15
3. DEVELOPMENT OF THE SYSTEM . ..................................
IDENTIFICATION OF THE ELEMENTS
3.1
POSITION RULES OF THE ELEMENTS
3.2
3.3 DIMENSIONS OF THE ELEM ENTS
3.4 STAIRS AND DUCTS
3.5 PARTY-WALLS AND SECTOR GROUPS
31
4. USING THE SYSTEM FOR A DYNA MIC DWELLING DESIGN ..............-54
4.1 NORM-SETTING
4.2 OPERATING
5. USING A COMPUTER IN THE DES IGN PROCESS ...................... 68
5.1 MAN'S WORK
5.2 MACHINE'S WORK
5.3 AN EXAMPLE
6. THEORETICAL BACKGROUND OF THE DESIGN MODEL .................. 89
6.1 RECOGNITION PROCESS
6.2 EXPLORATION PROCESS
6.3 CHARACTERISTICS OF THE MODEL
BIBLIOGRAPHY ................................................... 104
CHAPTER
CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
1.1
MOTIVATIONS AND OBJECTIONS ............................ 6
1.2
HYPOTHESIS ............................................ 8
1.3
SCOPE AND FRAMEWORK .................................. 13
S . A .R.
1.1
Stichting Architecten Research; -- an
organiiation
founded in Netherlands
in
1964,
to conduct architectural
research.
MOTIVATIONS AND OBJECTIVES
S.A.R.
methodology,
give
would
I felt
a better
me
interest
the
exploring
After
studies in architecture.
my
throughout
my
application have always held
its
and
Housing
area
that further research in this
understanding
of
and
decision-making
reasoning in design.
The support design approach has been widely tested in western
European
countries
and
has proven to be a successful
provide variability and adaptability in housing design.
little
the
model
However,
research has been done to substantiate its workability
context
of Taiwan.
Hence,
I decided to direct
to
my
in
study
towards a dynamic dwelling~design model in Taiwan.
The
application
of computer-aided
design
in
architecture
always presents a lot of potential and challenge to me.
By using
the computer to assist us in the design process, designers will no
longer
have
to
spend their time in many of the ways
that
have
*DYNAMIC DWELLING
A dynamic dwelling should provide
VARIABILITY -- the abilities to make
or vary while maintaining
different
-- the
and ADAPTABILITY
stability,
in
to
adjust
to change
abilities
external condition.
traditionally
occupied them,
and will be able to concentrate
craetive aspects of design that really matter.
on
In this thesis, I
would like to explore the applicability of the computer as a
tool
S.A.R,
METHODS
computer-applied
dynamic
details
feasibility and design strategy
of
dwelling
SYSTEM + LEVELS
COMPUTER
-APPLIED
DYNAMIC
DWELLING
the
design.
precisely
dwelling
design.
This approach also seeks to
It explores
for
a
design
reasoning
design
of a physical form.
about
physical and spatial
dynamic
understand
how a dynamic dwelling design is executed by
relations
the
more
exploring
in the
An application of this model will be
illustrated within the contexts of multi-family walk-up apartments
COMPUTER-APPLIED
DYNAMIC DWELLING
DESIGN MODEL
MULTI-FAMILY WALK-UP
APARTMENTS IN TAIWAN
AS CASE ILLUSTRATION
(Fig.
1.1)
in Taiwan
to
show how this
computer-applied
design model would really work. (Fig. 1.1)
dynamic
dwelling
1.2
HYPOTHESIS
The
Architectural design is a kind of form-making activity.
In a design, the
ultimate object of design is the physical form
context defines the problem, while the form is the solution to the
Desi gn 's
problem.
function then is to trans late the context
The context is that
the form so as to solve the design problem.
part of the world which put demands on the form.
world
that
to
make demands of the form is context,
Anything in the
all
i.e.
the
social/economic and physical constraints.
There
attempt
to
designers
mathematic
computer
structures.
is always
a leap between context and
overcome this leap and to connect context
have often tried to set up some logical
descriptions
could
generate
However,
forms
by
means
difficult
of
In an
and
form,
structures
to represent the problem and
these
hoped
or
the
logical
more and more design problems are reaching
high levels of complexit y and difficulty.
more
form.
It is getting more and
to set up logical structures to exceed
the
leap
between the context and the form. (Fig. 1.2)
(Fig.
1.2)
Understanding this task,
I am trying to approach the problem
in the dynamic dwelling design process.
In a dynamic dwelling design, architects have to evaluate the
support
makes
design
by means of the quality of the dwelling
possible.
develop
Using the S.A.R.
methodology,
that
it
I would like to
a computer-applied dynamic dwelling design
model.
This
design model will not only help an architect or a developer in the
evaluation process of a dynamic dwelling design but is also useful
for individual residents to plan their own dwelling layouts.
A
the
specific building type is chosen to diminish the
computer
computer
data
base.
in dealing
computational
limits.
with
The
This enables the use of
this
model
within
a
its
multi-family walk-up
size
of
personal
practical
apartments
in
Taiwan were chosen as an example here to illustrate the model.
I
feel this type offers a great challenge as a design
reason
is not only because the development of this
issue.
The
intensively-
used building type serves rapid urbanization and industrialization
in Taiwan but also because this existing type,
which I am familar
with, provides a clear base toward understanding the nature of the
problem.
As
a whole,
this study will generate a tentative
model
of
of
link between context and form from
the
different
totally
a
direction which is more familar to- architects -- "form".
testing form,
with form,
and ending up with form, I am trying to
avoid the leap between form and context.
approach
Starting
This kind of
(Fig. 1.3)
also benefits the application of computers in the design
process.
with
contexts
which make the form.
start
could
all
would not have a hard time figuring out
we
form,
imposed
If we
always implies a certain context.
Form
Through our
the
observation
about the transformation of the form, we can establish rules about
the
form
as
a
pre-condition.
Then,
materials based on that understanding.
kind
of
"form-oriented"
transformation
design
of the form.
we
arrange
spaces
The only premise of
model is the
maturity
The more mature the
of
and
this
the
transformation
the form is, the more meaningful the context imposed on it would
be.
The
rules
"theme"
(Fig.
1.3)
man-made
which
environment always reveals certain
can be used as guidelines
for
design.
consistent
The
terms
and "variations" are ways of indicating the idea that the
environment
can be described on the basis of systemic
rules
and
the
design
can be developed on the basis of that
understanding.
(Fig. 1.4)
-- "recognition"
Design consists of two aspects of expertise
and
-- that help designers
"exploration"
recognition
ability enables a designer to observe patterns from a
and to formulate explicit rules
of variations,
set
The
them.
The
decisions.
make
exploration
ability
a
enables
to
designer
describe
to
make
variations subject to a given set of constraints.
In the recognition process of design, the designer observes a
VARIATIONS
OF
FORM
form with meaningful contexts in it.
mature
the designer then can formulate explicit rules
theme of the form,
on
the form.
THEME]
in a
There are always spatial and physical themes
RECOGNITION
form
the
By recognizing
recognized
as
constraints
in terms
of
elements,
site,
relations between the elements, and position rules on the elements
in the site.
EXPLORATION
In the exploration process of design,
spaces
and
recognition
materials
process.
activities by generating,
(Fig.
1.4)
setting
up
based
The
on
the
designer
the designer organizes
from
understanding
explores
the
the
form-making
testing, and adjusting the form without
any logical structures to link the
context
and
the
form. (Fig. 1.3)
In the whole design process, we only deal with the problem of
form,
both physical and spatial.
also end up with a form.
evaluate
from
Design begins with a form
and
With this model, we introduce testing to
alternative forms by checking them with outside criteria
a context which must be applied.
We then find
feasibility
and ease in applying computers to the testing process.
are forms proposed by the designer,
The input
the output could be the
same
form as proposed or evolved ones, and some comments concerning the
problems of the proposed forms.
resources
is the
one
(Fig. 1.5)
People with needs and
using this design model
to
connect
the
context and the form.
design process is also a kind of developmental
The
process.
The design process repea'ts a series of operations again and again.
ADJUSTING
GENER ATING
RULES]
TEST ING
ADJUSTING
FORM
A
decision in one cycle may determine contexts for
the next.
be
and so on....
(Fig.
unmade for others who join the work later.
in the dynamic dwelling design model,
possibility
1.5)
in
The design can be finished completely or decisions can
left
concept
decisions
dwellings.
we
Using
introduce
this
the
for individual residents to plan and change their own
SCOPE AND FRAMEWORK
1.3
The scope of this study is on the dwelling level dealing with
design issues of the dynamic dwelling.
the
design
evaluate the basic variants in a dynamic
and
generate
How
to
dwelling
scope
assistance of a computer is the
the
with
1.6)
(Fig.
the
of
thesis.
This
research emphasizes upon the habitational sphere
given
technical
the
to the productional sphere dealing with
problems of the physical system,
a
Little attention
dynamic design in planning variety and change.
was
of
detailed
such as the materials
and details of partitions, storage units, eletrical systems, etc..
This
family
walk-up
with.
After
making
of
type,
*SYSTEM
A system can be understood as product
of interaction among parts.
It is a
kit
of parts,
with rules about the
way these parts may be combined.
study starts with a specific type of building -- multiapartments in Taiwan,
I investigated,
most
of
the
existence
of
the
I am trying to describe the form of this specific type
in hand,
of
By recognizing the form, I then try to develop
system.with explicit rules for this type of housing.
system
familiar
realizing the background
this type and observed the use and
housing in Taiwan.
a
which I am
I will
explain the way of
using
With the
it in the
decision-making
and
design-reasoning
processes
of
a
dynamic
dwelling design.
After
only
that
dwelling
the
exploring the design with a system,
the
we can
system is valuable to be employed
find
in a
not
dynamic
design but also that it is feasibe to apply computers in
design process.
This is also an objective of this study
--
TOWARD A COMPUTER-APPLIED DYNAMIC DWELLING DESIGN MODEL FOR MULTIFAMILY
WALK-UP
completed,
the
reach
APARTMENTS
After
the
model
is
I will go back to explain the theoretical concepts in
design model.
a
IN TAIWAN.
general
Starting with a specific example,
theory
of
design.
Wider
and
I finally
also
deeper
applications will be then possible for future research. (Fig. 1.7)
T
PHYSICAL.
URBAN STRUCTURE
TOWNSPTA
NE
IGHBORHOOD
SPAT IAL
PHYSICAL
ROOM"
SPATIAL
(Fig.
1.7) Frame Work
(F ig.
1. 6) Scope
ELEMENT
E.E
CHAPTER
CHAPTER 2
2.1
DESCRIPTION OF THE TYPE
THE "MAKING" OF THIS TYPE ............................ 18
Chinese Cultural and Social Change
Japanese Colonial Influences
Building Codes and Zoning Regulations
Economic and Industrial Development
Construction Process
2.2
THE "FORM" OF THIS TYPE .............................. 24
Orientation
Rectangle
Territory
Access
Sunlight
Ventilation
Planting
Living & Dining
Cooking
Bathing
Sleeping
Balcony
The
rules
with
design.
which
architects can develop
have
to
recognize spatial and material
built environments and develop
such
systems
to
activity.
patterns
a system from the patterns.
a system in design they may explore design to meet
by
needs
organizing
spaces and materials based on
for
use
design is a kind of form-making
Architectural
Architects
consistent
environment always reveals certain
man-made
in
Using
specific
that
under-
standing.
Among
residential buildings,
contemporary
the
multi-story
residential building is the most prevailing and universal
housing
It is particularly true in rapidly growing urban centers in
type.
developing countries.
This type of housing represents the living
environment for the majority of
The
urban populations.
multi-family walk-up apartments in Taiwan can be seen as
a specific type among contemporary residential building.( Fig. 2.1
a, b )
It has both similarities and differences with other forms
of multi-story buildings found elsewhere.
family
with
walk-up
In Taiwan,
residential buildings blend
Japanese influences.
Chinese
the
multi-
traditions
It applies modern building technology,
and responds to the specific needs of family life in Taiwan.
=vi
sWee=-;.--
- --
~
-~
2.1
THE "MAKING" OF THIS TYPE
In Taiwan,
multi-family walk-up apartment buildings appeared
in late 1950's.
At that time, a thrust in economic and industrial
developments created a demand for urban housing.
The form of this
type of housing has evolved with following factors:
A. CHINESE CULTURAL AND SOCIAL CHANGES
Family
lizing and modernizing countries.
have
Iei
F
PIC
r
units.
In Taiwan, the family patterns
extended
However,
household
of
relations,
as
a persistent need for extended
manifested
to
in a form
called
and
nuclear
it is still a expression of
piety to live with elderly parents in Taiwan.
is evidence
(F ig.
the
from
evolved
independent
industria-
life has been changing radically in many
filial
At present, there
and
new
family
"modified-improved
2. lb)
Walk-Up Apartments in Taiwan
extended families".
(Fig. 2.2)
The "modified-improved extended family" includes the vertical
and/or horizontal extensions from the nuclear family.
a
vertical
extension
is composed of elderly
parent/s
Typically,
and
the
family of one of their sons or daughters. The family unit includes
TRADITI0NAL
CHINESE
HOUSE FORM
LOW COST
PUBLIC HOUSING
WALK-UP
.-APARTMENT
HILGH RISE
JAPANESE
. HOUSE
VARIATIONS OF
TRADITIONALOUFA
EXTENDED FAMILY
NUCLEAR FAMILY
NCLAR
FAMILY
I
MODIFIED
EXTENDED
I
IFMILY
ADDPTED.EEWTENCED
I
MPR
M
CO0PERATIVE
I
1960
STEM FAMILY
HOUSHOLDS
1977
(Fig. 2.2) Housing Transformation In Taiwan
NOW
lUKE
members
of
three generations but is separated from the
and periphery connections.
Horizontally,
joint
by
household
maintained
families
branches
the common form is a
of
brothers.
Usually
This
unmarried brothers and/or sisters are also in the household.
specific
of
type contributes a lot to the formation
family
the
multi-family walk-up apartments in Taiwan.
(Fig.
2.3a)
Japanese Duplex Houses
B. JAPANESE COLONIAL INFLUENCES
most
In the early stage of this walk-up apartment evolution,
of
the new buildings were built on the sites of demolished houses
in the Japanese colonial period.
built
adhered
buildings
instituted
and
2.3 a, b)
These
codes
to the
building
and
behind by the
Japanese
colonial
strictly
left
(Fig.
zoning
adminis-
tration.
A typical Japanese house in Taiwan was a duplex -- two houses
sharing
a
common wall.
Generally the house occupied a
approximately 100 - 120 ping (325 - 390 my?).
buildings
Basically,
of
the new
were built right on the top of old foundations with the
maximum allowable building coverage of 60% of the lot.
(Fig.
lot
So,
two
2.3b)
Walk-Up Apartments
in Taiwan
apartments might occupy
approximately 30 - 40 ping (100 - 130 m4)
each on one level with a common wall between them.
Given
the opportunity of going higher,
stair well to reach the upper levels.
the building needs a
Typically,
is located between the two halves of the building at
the staircase
the
front,
facing the street.
C. BUILDING CODES AND ZONING REGULATIONS
The
codes rule that 60% of the lot
building
area
be
the
maximum allowable building coverage for residential constructions.
balconies in the front and in the back of a building are not
But,
considered as building coverage.
The actual coverage is therefore
technically often greater than what the law allows.
The
height of the building is also restricted by law to
times the width of the street in front of the
that
height,
retreated
to
1.5
Beyond
building.
a set back rule dictates that the building must
the
diagonal line drawn from the far side
the
of
street to the near side with the height of 1.5 times the width
the
(Fig.
2.4i
Building-Height Limitation
street.
(Fig.
about
8 meters wide,
Also,
five
2.4)
Since most old residential streets
the height limit is four to five
be
of
are
stories.
stories is the maximum floor height allowed by
codes
for buildings without elevators.
Besides code requirements mentioned above, building economics
and construction techniques have also contributed to the making of
the multi-family walk-up apartments in Taiwan.
D. ECONOMIC AND INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT
In Taiwan, the rapid industrialization has attracted numerous
rural
workers
to
immigrate to urban
areas.
The
pressure
of
immigrants' housing needs led to the brisk increase in the density
of residential settings.
This swift growth in urban populations
also created the demand for vertical construction of many stories.
As land got scarcer and more costly,
both
necessary
multi-story buildings became
and desirable to meet growing housing demand
and
development costs.
Along
with
industrialization,
it became
popular
to
use
concrete construction and brick infill for walls and partitions as
innovations
in building technology.
This has provided the
wide-
spread and primary means for fast, economical, multi-story housing
construction.
E. CONSTRUCTION PROCESS
zoning
Because
typical
plan.
the
Once
from
mitments
plans are drawn up,
the
a
is intensively
project
of individual units are
buyers
Com-
buyers.
prior
sought
to
Since each buyer owns the apartment prior to
actual construction.
!' ! ! A IT
with
2.5 a,b)
(Fig.
for each unit.
130 mn)
and usually sold quickly to prospective
advertised
once
It has two units on each floor with approximately
(100 -
30 - 40 ping
up
architects in Taiwan had to come
lot size,
a
given
strict,
are
and building regulations
its constuction, prospective occupants have a chance to decide how
it is to be furnished.
This gives distinctive qualities to each
apartment while the basic plan remains the same.
B2
9K
K B1 32
b
(Fig. 2.5a) Typical Plan
IMBI
L
B2 t
B1
L
K K
MB
B1 B2
MEb
D
D
rr
MBD
L
L
MR
X2
BI
K. K1
b
Be 2
b
MD L
L
x BE
K K BI Be
D
D
ML
L
(Fig.
2.5b)
MB
2
K K
B
bb D
"D
B
MB
M1 L
Typi c
Var i at i on
MV
IJMB
K K 31
L
2
M
K K BD 32
B
b''L
D b.
LUL
B
Be
1 32
LA
B
B
L Mb
1
K K 3
L Q
JL a
32
L MR
2.2
THE "FORM" OF THIS TYPE
recognition
In this
I
process,
limited
observation
my
strictly on the physical phenomenon which can be distinguished
--
solid
elements,
and
--
void
elements enhance one another;
spaces.
Space
as
material
and
There is
One must imply the other.
a distinction but no separation.
We
see
configurations
by
certain
distinguishing
of elements and their distributions at the
selections
also
see
can
how certain configurations indicate the
site.
boundaries
We
of
spaces and distinguish certain selections as well as distributions
REAR
of spaces.
observations on the multi-family walk-up
Through
apartments
in Taiwan, I have extracted certain general conclusions about this
specific
then
environment
can
The form of the multi-family walk-up
type.
be described through our observations of
as
the
apartments
physical
follows:
FRONT
A. ORIENTATION
(Fig. 2.6) Orientation
There is a strong sense of orientation with people, they want
to
..................
.......
...........
......
easily distinguish spatial directions.
row
duplex
the
between
tinctions
buildings.
front and the rear of
(Fig.
2.6)
dis-
There are clear
these
People are
multi-story
aware
of
the
... .......V.
... .......V.
of specific space locations in the
importance
with
more intensive activities tend to
For
locations.
instance,
interior.
put in more
Spaces
significant
living rooms and master bedrooms
are
..........
always in the front part of the building.
B. RECTANGLE
In Chinese,- "diagonal" sounds exactly like "evil".
(Fig. 2.7)
Both are
Rectangle
as
prounced
1
"hsieh".
Thus physical configuration
and
spatial
arrangement are preferably laid out at right angles and integrated
into
a
geometrical
building
therefore
The form
rectangular grid system.
neatly comes out with
a
rectangular
of
the
shape.
(Fig. 2.7)
C. TERRITORY
in this type of residential building,
and a sequence of privacy is distinguished.
(Fig. 2.8) Territory
territory
are as follows:
the territory is clear
The sequence and the
outside (public) ---
staircase (semi-
---
public)
front balcony (semi-private) ---
(semi-private)
---
---
bedrooms
(private) ---
back balcony (semi-private) ---
living & dining room
kitchen
outside
(semi-private)
(public).
(Fig. 2.8)
D. ACCESS
Each dwelling unit has its own main entrance directly to
public
open
entrance
space
hall
or to a shared
entrance
hall.
The
shared
enables users to express their identification
the control of their territory.
(Fig. 2.9)
the
and
Balconies are used as
transitions between inside and outside activities.
(Fig. 2.9) Access
V
E. SUNLIGHT
Buildings are preferably north-south oriented for
sunlights.
every
preferable
There must be direct sunlight to at least one side for
living
space
(bedroom,
living
room,
kitchen,
etc.).
Interior window curtains are popularly used to shade the sunlight.
Balconies
are
also
preferred as efficient
horizontal
devices for the subtropic climate in Taiwan. (Fig. 2.10)
# 9
(Fig. 2.10) Sunlight
shading
F. VENTILATION
natural
ventilation.
auxiliary
steam
for
are at least two openings in every interior space
There
mechanical
and
residents
2.11)
In the kitchen and
ventilators are installed for
In the living room and
smoke.
have
(Fig.
the
option
to
install
the
bathroom,
their
master
heavy
bedroom,
air-conditioners
into
provided openings to deal with the subtropical summer in Taiwan.
G. PLANTING
There are a lot of potted plants in the balconies and outside
(Fig. 2.11) Ventilation
the window.
Residents use these plants to identify and
their territories.
Shortage of green space in the urban area has
increased the use of potted plants too.
to
prevent
beautify
Steel cases are installed
into
the
conceived as the center of
the
the flower pots from falling and
dropping
street. (Fig. 2.12)
H. LIVING & DINING
-k
Living
whole
(Fig. 2.12) Plainting
and dining rooms are
family activities.
to the back of the house.
They are also a passage from the front
This is a multi-purpose space where
a
variety of activities,
These activities include reception,
and
chatting
ancestors
eating
can take place.
both formal and informal,
together.
recreation,
family
worship,
solid
gods is placed in a formal manner against a
and
the
for
Quite often an altar
wall facing the entrance. (Fig. 2.13)
I. COOKING
Cooking
Chinese
because
(Fig. 2.13) Living & Dining
activities
In addition
to
of
a mechanical
ventilator,
a
smoke.
is still
kitchen
directly
exposed to the outside for natual ventilation.
kitchen,
there are a sink,
1.8m by 3.3m --
unit
the
cooking always brings abundant steam and
and cabinets for storage.
111
isolated to the back
are
In the
a gas stove, a refrigerator, counters
The normal size for a kitchen is about
2.4m by 4.2m. (Fig. 2.14)
J. BATHING
0
0
By means of mechanical ventilators, a bathroom can be located
in spaces without any direct exposure to the outside.
least
(Fig. 2.14) Cooking
one
bathroom with a bathtub,
whole family with easy access.
There is at
a sink and a toilet for
(Fig. 2.15)
the
The normal size for a
bathroom is about 1.5m by 2.4m -residents
is bigger,
put
usually
When a bathroom
1.8m by 2.7m.
laundry
in it.
equipments
Generally a second bathroom is preferred to attached to the master
bedroom.
K. SLEEPING
and/or a dressing table for women.
(Fig. 2.15) Bathing
making up, etc.
storage,
studying,
desks,
cabinets,
They function for
sleeping,
furniture includes beds,
In each bedroom,
The normal size for a single
The normal size
is about 2.4m by 3.6m -- 3.6m by 3.6m.
bedroom
for a double bedroom is about 3.6m by 4.2m -- 4.2m by 4.8m.
(Fig.
the
other
A master
2.16)
bedroom
is a
little
larger
than
bedrooms.
It is usually in the front part of the dwelling and, as
mentioned
above,
a
However
a
bathing
bathing
unit
unit
either
is usually
connects
included
with
or
in it.
locates
conveniently near the bedrooms that have no bathrooms.
L. BALCONY
Balconies no wider than 1.5 meters are not counted as a
(Fig.2.16) Sleeping
of
the
building coverage limitation.
They provide a sense
part
of
possession of open spaces.
The front balcony is normally used as
space for transition and space for entrance.
can take off shoes and put on slippers here.
Residents and guests
It is also a
space
for semi-public use, and a space for planting.
The
machine,
back
balcony
is a space of mutiple
a gas container,
a boiler,
(Fig. 2.17) Balcony
A washing
and a sink are here.
also the space to dry clothes in the air,
store things. (Fig 2.17)
uses.
to grow plants,
It is
and to
CHAPTER
CHAPTER 3
DEVELOPMENT OF THE SYSTEM
3.1
IDENTIFICATION OF THE ELEMENTS ....................... 33
3.2
POSITION RULES OF THE ELEMENTS ....................... 34
3.3
DIMENSIONS OF THE ELEMENTS ........................... 37
3.4
STAIRS AND DUCTS ..................................... 43
3.5
PARTY-WALLS AND SECTOR GROUPS ........................ 46
A system,
in general,
is a set of clearly defined elements,
plus a description of the relationships among them.
S3
'?
S2
Si
Building can
be described as a system in which specific elements relate to each
S3
AD...DettQ
:Alpha
Beta
according to specific rules.
other
After observing the physical
environment of multi-family walk-up apartments in Taiwan,
we
can
systematic rules for the design of this specific type of
generate
housing. (Fig. 3.1a,b)
AD
S3
S2'
GLmMo
S2'
(Fig. 3.ia) Saptial
S3
System
With this concept,
of 'components,
the building can be regarded as a
ordered according to certain rules --
spaces are the system's components,
which
and
the
system
a system in
relationship
between those spaces conforms to certain rules.
Since
in space,
rules of the system are relative positions of elements
the S.A.R. methods offer ways to solve the coordination
and evaluation problems in design by use of the system in a shared
.-.
......... ...--...
...........
spatial
They
framework
provide
the
-- a grid of modular
means
for
and
zone
participants" to
distribution.
coord inate
and
communicate individual decisions easier.
* PARTICIPANTS
(Fig. 3. Ib) Physical
System
The participants of the multi-family
are
in Taiwan
walk-up apartments
architects, developers, and users who
are
involved in the decision-making
process.
3.1
IDENTIFICATION OF THE ELEMENTS
All the spatial functions can be divided into three groups -special purpose spaces, general purpose spaces and service spaces.
(1) Special purpose spaces:
Are
intended for particular activities over a certain
of time.
length
They include bedrooms, kitchens, studies, etc.
The
SPECIAL PURPOSE SPACES
R
B1
B2
MB
K
Ki
KD
E
Specific Purpose Room
Single Bedroom
Double Bedroom
Master Bedroom
Pitchen
Kitchenette
K:itchen + Dining
Entrance
maximum
and
minimum size of which can be determined
on
the
basis of an analysis of their functions. (Fig. 3.2)
(2) General purpose spaces:
Are
wide
the
largest single space in the dwelling and can have
variety of arrangements to accommondate different
a
kinds
GENERAL PURPOSE SPACES
L
D
LD
F
Living
Dining
Living
Family
Room
Room
+ Dining
Room
of
activities
for the whole family.
Such space
cannot
be
determined in advance.
(3) Service spaces:
SERVICE SPACES
Are not meant for long term occupation, but are present in the
Bathroom
Toilet
+ Sink
Bathroom + Laundry
Storage
Stai rs
dwelling for short term,
storages,
specific activities.
stairs, and bathrooms.
They
include
Both the size and layout of
such spaces can also be determined on the basis of an analysis
(Fig. 3.2)
of their functions.
POSITION RULES OF THE ELEMENTS
3.2
Spaces
determine
zones
be placed in a zone/margin system
conventions among a group of people -- the
certain
To
can
and
how spaces can be located in a
zone
according
to
participants.
distribution,
margins are categorized according to which
particular
spaces are situated and/or defind them.
The
zones and margins in a zone distribution can be
defined
as follows:
intended for
alpha (a) zone is an internal area,
(a) An
private
use, and is adjacent to an external wall.
(b) A
beta (0) zone is an internal area,
intended
for
private
intended for
private
use, but is not adjacent to an external wall.
(c) A
delta
(6) zone is an external area,
use.
(d) A
gamma (')
zone can be internal or external but is intended
for public use.
(e) A
margin
is an area between two
zones,
with
the
charac
teristics of both zones and taking its name from them.
(f) A sector is part of a zone and its adjoining
margins that
is
unobstructed and can be planned freely.
Now
S3
s2
SI
S2
investigate
can
we
the
their
between
relationships
location and the zone distribution as following:
S3
AD
Detta
AlphaL
ADAB-- Detta
(Fig. 3.3a) Special Purpose Space
(a) Special purpose spaces:
Such spaces always end in two consecutive margins. The minimum
The
depth
of these spaces is the width of the zone.
depth
is the width
(Fig.
3.3a)
These spaces are adjacent to the facade,
alpha
zone.
The
margins.
of the zone plus two adjoining
position
rule
for
a
kitchen
maximum
in the
will
also
restricted by the location of the duct. (Fig. 3.3b)
(b) General prupose spaces:
Such spaces may overlap one or more zones and end in a margin.
such spaces are adjacent to the facade and
Since
spaces,
purpose
located
special
they often occupy the alpha (a) zone or both
alpha (M) and beta (f) zones.
often
to
in the
(Fig.
3.4)
Dining spaces
are
of
the
beta (8) zone at the
center
dwelling.
(c) Service spaces:
Such
(Fig.
3.3b) Kitchen Position
spaces are not necessarily adjacent to a
facade.
are usually small and related to a special purpose space.
They
It
is often possible to locate them in the alpha beta (a4) margin
or the beta (#) zone.
S3
S2
Si
S2
_
_
_
AD
.
3.5b)
Alpha
iLi~
S3
:-Beta
ABAlpha
A
Gamma S2'
S2'
Dett
S3
(Fig. 3.4) General Purpose Space
S3
S2
Si
S3
S2
......
. ..........
.......................
....
........
...
.....
..
.......
~AD Det
Alpha
...
.Beti
..... .... ..
S3
S2'
Alpha~
.
.
.
.
Ganna
AD
.
S2'
DeltQ
...
.....
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..
.....
..
..
..
.
...
..
..
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..
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.
..
.....
.
..
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....
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..
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....
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.
...........
laAB
*
...
.............. .. ...........
...........
M
AB-
*
The location of a bathroom
is also restricted by the location of the sanitary duct. (Fig.
S3
Delta
_ _
(Fig. 3.5a)
. .. ...
S3
(Fig. 3.5b) Bathroom Position
(Fig. 3.5a) Service Space
3.3
DIMENSIONS OF THE ELEMENTS
usually based on the preferred maximum and
are
sectors)
size of the spaces in a dwelling.
and
margins,
The proportions of a zone distribution (zones,
minimum
Location of a space in a
zone
distribution implies certain maximum and minimum sizes.
relationships
The
can
be
specific
uses
function
analysis chart.
the
desired
their
between special purpose spaces and
space
a
of
clarified with the aid
functions,
With the analysis of their
dimension range of spaces can
then
be
and
determined.
(Fig. 3.6 a,b,c,d)
The relationship between a service space and its function can
also
clarified
be
analyzing
their
with the aid of a chart.
functions,
On
basis
the
both the sizes and layouts
of
of
such
service spaces can be determinated in advance. (Fig. 3.7)
The exact space dimensions (that are chosen ina specific plan)
will
depend
on needs and resources of
specific knowledge about the occupants,
unnecessary
Though
we
for
architects
to
decide
the
occupants.
Without
it is both impossible and
the
exact
dimensions.
can not decide the exact dimensions with the
analysis
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(Fig. 3.6b) Single or Double Bedrooms
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above,
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spaces
dimensions
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margin,
offered by each zone,
desirable
certain
the analyses.
then
let
specific contexts make their own decisions.
of
space
and
function analysis,
of
dimensions
a better idea about the possible
have
sure
make
that
and sector are
occupants
Also,
these people may
the
within
their
from
with the help
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better
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3.4
.........
......... .....
STAIRS AND DUCTS
The placement of the staircase will determine the location of
In the support system for
the entry door to each apartment unit.
walk-up
multi-family
apartments
in Taiwan,
I propose
two
alternative placements for the staircase.
(F ig.
3.8 a)
One
the
alternative is to put the entry door at the far
away from the street.
staircase
lateral center of the apartment.
the
stairs
locates
or
this
Functionally,
on
the
end
This entry locates at
of
the
The door either straightly faces
side
of
the
landing.
stair
arrangement makes sense since the circulation
from the entry to all the other part of the apartment is shortest.
I.I.I......I.I.
(Fig. 3.8 a,b)
The
second
alternative is to place the entry
front of the building.
is through
(F ig.
3.8b)
with
inner
the living room directly.
living room.
in the
The method of entering the dwelling unit
a balcony in the front of the apartment
staircase,
door
(Fig.
which
links
3.8 c) We pass through an
get into an open balcony,
and then
reach
the
This flow is remarkably similar to the sequence in a
traditional Chinese court-yard house.
43
The
location
and
placement of ducts is also
aspect of a support design.
bathrooms
an
important
They determine possible locations of
and kitchens as well as the capacity of the space
that
the support structure can possess.
In the support design for the multi-family walk-up apartments
in Taiwan, we propose two separate ducts for kitchen facilities in
a duplex unit.
the
and
location
auxiliary
(Fig. 3.9 a) Thus we may have more flexibility in
duct
size of the
k itchens.
We
in the center of the duplex unit,
front or in the rear of the centra l location.
extra
duct
provides
a chance to put bathing
informal kitchen in the back of the staircase.
ducts
unit
also
(Fig.
propose
an
either in the
3.9 b) This
facilities
or
We also turn
an
the
horizontal to connect the spaces on both sides of a duplex
or spaces between units.
(Fig.
3.9 c,d)
more flexibility in sector group organizations.
Thus we may
have
.
...
....
.
.
.
. .
.
.......
1..........
L........
.....1....
.......
(Fig. 3.9a) Ducts for kitchens
(Fig. 3.9c) Lateral Ducts for Connecting Duplex Units
..
(Fig. 3.9b) Auxiliary Ducts in the Center of a Duplex Unit
.
..
..
.
(Fig. 3.9d) Lateral Ducts for Connecting Duplex Units
3.5
PARTY-WALLS AND SECTOR GROUPS
In the proposed support systems for the multi-family walk-up
apartments
in Taiwan,
there are two alternatives
placement.
(Fig. 3.10).
Besides that, there are two alternatives
in connecting duplex units. (Fig. 3.11)
a
total
of
four
Combining both, there are
alternative systems in the
principles
distribution
in staircase
proposed for
the
zone
and
multi-family
sector
walk-up
apartments in Taiwan. (Fig. 3.12)
dwelling
A
combination
in a
support
structure
of inter-connecting sectors
can
seen
be
-- sector
a
as
The
groups.
criteria for a sector group to form a dwelling unit are as below:
(a) There
are
ducts
for kitchen
facilities,
either
a
formal
kitchen or an informal kitchenette.
(b) There
are
ducts
for bathroom
facilities.
The
number
of
bathrooms should be according to the size the family.
(c) Each
--
(d) All
unit should be accessible from the vertical
circulation
staircase.
the spaces within a sector group should be connected
accessible from any part of the sector group.
and
ll...
I
1....
1
.1 1.1
~~ ~
..
.....
.....
U.....
..
U.... ...
.......
U....
......
4.. .............. . ....
.... ...
..
..
...
.I...I iI....i.1
(Fig. 3.10) Stair-Case Placement Alternatives
(Fig.
3.11)
Unit
Connecting Alternatives
S3
S2
Si
S2
.. .. .. ..... .. . .. .
-.
-.. .. . .
- - -----.
S3
S3
S2
S1
S2
S3
----
-
-
TR
- -
- -
-
R~
- -
-
S2
S1
S2
S1
S2
S3
S3
S2
R e a r
TR
T... ..
...
....
..
.I ..
.I .....
I I ....
...
...
...
.I
..
...
To
*.
.
U
.--
-
-BM
........
.......... ......Bot
-.... -. -----....
----
TM
op.
-Middle
===
Si'
Si,
Si,
SI,
Alternative B
Alternative A
S3
S ?'
S1
S2
S3
S3
S2
-BF
. . . . . . . . . . .. ..... - - .Front
Front
- -
S2
SI
S3
S3
S2
SI
S2
S3
S3
S2
-
..
Middle
-
. ...
I........ ....... ..
I.....
tom
op
I II
---.
..
S3
S2
S1
-
-- Reor
..---.. Reor
T
-Top
~.Top
. ......
I .....
........- ....
.- .......-.
-Middle
....--
** *
+
i
i
. --.
U
~
.
-
Middle
BM
-BM
Bottom
Botto
--
-I..
BF Front
Front
Si,
Sl'
Alternative D
Alternative C
(Fig. 3.12)
Four
Support Alternatives
(e) A
sector
group
without
adjacency
to
a
facade
is not
considered a dwelling unit.
Between
dwelling
units
support
systems,
spaces
about
and
define the
territories.
where
separate
In the
the
proposed
the
there are some accompanying rules restrict
Looking more closely
positions of the party-walls.
possible
the
party-walls
different sector groups,
of the proposed systems,
these
party-walls
may
at
we may have a better
idea
be
3.13
located.
(Fig.
a,b,c,d,e)
People with different needs and resources then may decide the
desired
sector
groups
within
the
system.
They
make
these
decisions according to their specific contexts and agreements with
their
family
neighbors.
In the proposed support systems for the multi-
walk-up apartments in Taiwan,
possible sizes and
layouts
vary in a great number in 'sector group organizations. (Fig. 3.14)
.........
.
.................
. .............
:
....
...
.............
.
V.
.............
............
I
III
I .III...I...
I~.... 111
...
IITJ
......
.
....
.......... ....
..................
... ...........
Al ....
e ...
n t v
AC
+1+
(Fig. 3.13a) Party-Wall Positions
........
V
....
......
III L.........
...........
.
..................
......
.....
Alternative BD
...............
V.
.............
...........
.........
(Fig. 3.13b) Party-Wall Positions
. .......
..
.....
..
+
t. iT
....
.I
.....
I..III..III
....
I..
..
....
I. . .
a.
4--4-
.....
L...
q....
...
11...
..
..
..
.
Alternative ABCD
I....
9....
J.....
I I......
.....
I.
''............
......
II.....
I...I.
.............
..
4......
II.....
..........
E..
I-4
....
..
W........
I.......
...............
-....
4
Al e ...........
n t v
AB...
...
.......
.............
.......
.....
... .......
................
.
.
...
I.....
..........
.........
.
...........
.........
1.
..........
...
... ...
..
........
........
I....
I
....
..
......
......................
....
..............
.
.
..
.....
......
4i5..
.........
I.....
I........t...
III.....
.1
..........
...........
........... W .............
.........
..........
1
..........
.........
.
......
.................
I'........
V
...........
..
..........
............. -.....
................
............ 1 ..... V
Alternative CD
(Fig. 3.13c) Party-Wall positions
ABCD
CDABD
ACD
ABCD
ABCD
ADACD
ABCD
ABD
ABCD
A
ABD
BD
ABCD
ABCD
ABCD
ABCD
ABCD
ABCD
ABCD
ABCDACCACC
B ABCD
AC
ABCD
AC
AC
ABCDB
ABCD
ABCD
AC
AC
BD
AC
AC_____AC____AC__
(Fig. 3. 14)
Possible Sector Groups
AC
AC
AC
AC
AC
B
CHAPTER
CHAPTER 4
4.1
USING THE SYSTEM FOR A DYNAMIC DWELLING DESIGN
NORM SETTING ......................................... 58
A.
B.
C.
D.
4.2
Standards of Function
Support Principles
Dimensions of Zones/Sectors
Sector Groups
OPERATING ............................................ 64
coordinated
reach
participants
leaves
decision
stage.
method
30
architects,
as
such
can
By using a system in the
design
independently
either
make decisions
or sequentially in a coordinated
simultaneously
the
decisions.
participants
process,
are
participants
These participants can use the system to
and users.
developers,
several
decision making process,
in the
involved
design,
dwelling
In a dynamic
way.
Moreover,
and
each
a number of options to be dealt with at a
later
can
make
decisions
incrementally
To solve the dimensional coordination problem, the S.A.R.
uses
as
a tartan grid plus a set of conventions
modular
coordination with a 30cm module to regulate the relative positions
10 10
of components in a neutral, fixed spatial framework. (Fig. 4.1)
. ....
.
..
.
--
Another
- *T * 1
problem
in design is the issue of
evaluation.
It
-- ......
r !
rises
whenever
one
wants
to
measure
architectural
To evaluate
regarding to the usefulness of the .layouts generated.
I-
decisions
--
a dynamic dwelling design,
one has to examine whether the support
C3D
structure can accommodate the preferred layout alternatives
satisfy the criteria for desired dwelling quality.
the
(Fig. 4.1) 30 cm
Tartan Grid Module
evaluation process,
in terms
which
Therefore, in
matters of quality must be made explicit
of standards and norms.
The standards
and
norms
are
understood
and agreed upon as a system by all the participants in
the dynamic dwelling design process.
-.
-
- - -
-
-
-
To achieve this, the S.A.R.
Alpha.
into
method
introduces
a "zoning" concept to divide a
dwelling
zones.
(Fig. 4.2)
Any dwelling can be treated with this concept.
- . . .
And
a dwelling type is recognized by a particular combination
The zones contain information on locations and dimensions
zones.
...................
..................
...................
..................
...................
of
of spaces.
Alpha
To evaluate a support stucture of the dynamic dwelling design
.....................................
..............................
......................................
.......................................
......................................
Be t a
......................................
.....................................
...........
..................
...................
. .. . . . . * . .. . . . .
. . .................
...................
. Alpha
.................
...................
for multi-family walk-up apartments in Taiwan, at least two issues
...........
..................
need to be investigated.
judged by the quality of the dwellings that it makes possible.
make such a judgement,
of
type
..................
...................
................
..................
...................
..................
First, the design of the support must be
dwelling
the term "good dwelling" for this specific
housing must be defined.
must
The standards
contain
...................................
......................................
......................................
......................................
.....................................
conforms to the definition of a "good" dwelling.
Beta
. .. .. .. .. .. .. . .. .. .. .. .. . .. . . Alpha
....................
....................
.. .. . .. . . .. . . . . . .
a
to
"good"
test
standards
should
information for participants to judge whether the
layout
alternatives.
Secondly,
it
This
must
means
be
that these
possible
developments of layout variations.
(Fig. 4.2) Zoning Concept
for
be set up in a way that they can be used
. Alpha
.................
...................
................
.............
.....................................
......................................
......................................
Beta
......................................
.....................................
layout
To
to
proceed
with
the
The layout variations not only
sliould conform to those predetermined standards but also should be
accommodated in the support structure evaluated.
support
system
proposed is set up to contain
Therefore,
the
about
information
locations and dimensions of spaces by means of the zoning concept.
We
now may test whether the support structure can accommodate the
desired layout alternatives or not.
structure
If it shows that the support
holds a large variety of "good" dwellings,
we may
say
of
the
that it is a "good" support.
In
the
process
of evaluating a support
structure
dynamic dwelling design, we can separate the task into two aspects
--
norm-setting and operating.
NORM-SETTING
4.1
The
preferred
"good
evaluation
of a support design is to check whether
the
criteria
for
alternatives,
layout
dwellings",
which satisfy the
can be accommodated by the support
structure.
Thus the problem of evaluation can be seen as a problem concerning
relationships between two space systems.
the
space
system
to
find
out
And the other
for the support structure.
space system for "good dwellings".
what
variations of
One system is the
is the
To evaluate a support, we want
the
space
system
for
"good
dwellings" can be made in the system for support structure.
Each variation of the system for support structure provides a
site for a number of variations of the system for good
dwellings.
Each support variation must be judged according to how good a site
it provides.
dynamic
Everything else equal,
the better support for the
design is the one which
dwelling
can
accommodate
more
variations of the system for good dwellings.
Regardless
of
the specific contexts of people's
needs
and
resources, the systems developed in Chapter Three are not complete
ones yet.
They are just principles in the dynamic dwelling design
for
the
multi-family walk-up apartments in Taiwan.
in the
participants
programs,
or
design are
given
the
As long
specific
as
contexts,
requirements from people with resources and
needs,
they can set up both space systems as norms for design with ease.
A. STANDARDS OF FUNCTION
To set up the criteria for "good" dwellings,
the
relations between functions and spaces.
essential
one must define
To do this,
it is
to realize the consequences that the program has on the
furniture layouts and sizes of spaces.
This formalized systematic
analysis on spaces and functions will give the participants a
of
orderly
and clear information about
possible layouts of each space.
make
the
size,
shapes,
Charts such as Fig.
lot
and
3.6 and 3.7
it easier to visualize the possible layouts and
consequent
sizes and shapes of each function.
These
analyses document the intention of
specific
decisions
within
standards
have been used.
systems used in design.
for
contexts.
the
They also
The standards reflect
participants'
indicate
certain
what
value
For each function, requirements are given
the spaces that may hold that function.
Each function is a
set
of
spaces.
different
The
lengths
possible
layouts
for
each
function
and widths in space reflect certain
of
standards
which are shared by participants in design.
B. SUPPORT PRINCIPLES
There
Chapter
are
four
support system
for the dynamic dwelling
Three
walk-up apartments in Taiwan.
used
in design,
systems
alternatives
of
distributions of zones,
multi-family
Regardless of the specific contexts
they are just support principles,
In these
yet.
design
in
developed
support
margins,
principles,
not
there
complete
only
are
The dimensions of
and sectors.
them will be determined later. (Fig. 3.12)
In the dynamic dwelling design process,
the
support
we have to evaluate
structure by checking whether the
preferred
variants are accommodated in the support structure.
layout
Therefore, we
have to choose one support alternative from the four according
the
specific
evaluate
each.
contexts
we are working with.
For each support alternative,
And
then
we
to
can
there are certain
characteristics composed by it and which can be used as references
to choose from.
The
zone
distribution
of each support
spatial context for space elements.
relationships between zones.
placements
system
provides
a
It also describes the spatial
In the meantime,
the positions and
of the stairs and ducts are different in each
support
Hence, the position rules for the space elements are also
system.
These all contribute to the references to choose
different.
one
of these support system alternatives to evaluate later.
C. DIMENSIONS OF ZONES/SECTORS
With
the
of a support principle from
the
proposed
the distribution of zones, margins, and sectors are
alternatives,
hereby
choice
given.
We then have to decide the dimensions
for
these
zones, margins, and sectors to establish a complete support system
which is going to be evaluated.
The dimensions for these zones can be determined by analyzing
how
the
well
dimensions.
system,
code
we
intended activities fit into
For
example,
for
zones
the delta zone
of
different
in our
support
have to examine the ideal width of a balcony and
the
limitation on it which can be excluded. in the building floor
coverage.
And for the gamma zone,
we have to examine the
ideal
and
width of the staircase.
legally-allowed
beta
and
comprehend
the
it is a little intricate to
though
zones,
For the alpha
dimension
since habitable rooms and service spaces have
functions
and
various
layouts,
still
we can
multiple
propose
certain
dimensions for them which will be evaluated later.
these margins.
within
standards
and
accommodates.
between
wide
value
judgements
the
which
support
there is little
the minimum and maximum depth a space can
margin,
end
The dimensions of margins reflect certain
a narrow margin,
For
always
Spaces
A margin is an area between two zones.
system
difference
have.
For
there is great room for variations in the depth
a
of
the space. (Fig. 4.3)
On
standards
shapes,
..............
more
f.exl.e
d
..
...... ....
deciding
of
and
sector dimensions,
that
functions
layouts
be
of
found in the
were set up
function.
charts
for
possible
These
discussed
to
the
sizes,
standards
of
earlier.
In
functions
can
addition,
the dimensions of zones and margins are also references
for the decision on dimensions of sectors since they all
form the shape of a space.
(Fig. 4.3) Margin for Flexibility
each
participants refer
together
D. SECTOR GROUPS
A dwelling in a support structure is a combination of interconnecting
variants,
sectors -- a sector group.
we
Before evaluating
layout
have to choose the desired sector groups which
both preferred,
according to our contexts,
are
and are valid in the
support structure.
There
dwelling
systems
are
unit
certain
within
proposed,
criteria for a sector group
our specific
contexts.
to
In the
form
support
alternative has some accompanying
each
a
rules
restricting the possible positions of the party-walls to define
a
sector group. (Fig. 3.13)
Participants
referring
resources.
to
may
their
After
decide upon the desired sector
specific
contexts
of
people's
groups
needs
deciding upon the desired sector groups,
by
and
they
then set up the complete support system they are going to work on.
4.2
OPERATING
To explore the dynamic dwelling design,
we have to
evaluate
A support in the dynamic dwelling design, by
the support design.
definition, is a structure which provides choices in the layout of
dwelling
support
units.
The
more
the preferred
structure can accommodate,
layout
variants
the
the better the support design
Is.
There
are two levels of variation for these layout
-- sector groups and basic variants.
be
used
variants
Any part of the support
for a dwelling gives a combination
sectors which is called a "sector group".
of
to
inter-connecting
For each sector group,
we can find the possible combinations of functions which is called
a
"basic
a
represents
set
basic variant gives no
A
variant".
of
floor
plans
that
all
floor
have
plan
the
but
same
arrangements- in functions.
After
we choose different sector groups and check what basic
variants each sector group can accommodate,
we know what capacity
of layout possiblities a support system has.
We then can use this
knowledgement
to evaluate whether the support system is good
or
bad within our specific contexts.
The exploration of a design problem is a process of solutioninvestigation.
and
select
In the
exploration
process,
the
distribute space elements based on the
participants
understanding
When they
explore
the process of a dynamic dwelling design for multi-family
walk-up
in the norm-setting sphere earlier.
obtained
apartments
system
the
both
in Taiwan,
the participants use known information
for support structure and the system
dwellings
as heuristic sources to generate design.
stimulate
design innovations and help the
for
These
participants
in
good
norms
conceive
alternative layout variations for a dwelling design.
The design variations are then compared with the norms.
layout
can
The
alternatives are compared and tested to determine if they
be accommodated by the environment,
described in the
system
for support structure, and if they can satisfy the criteria set up
in the system for good dwellings.
From this testing process, the
participants learn the contrasts between the design variations and
the norms.
To
adjust the relations between the design variation and the
iorms, one may decide to refine the design variation or revise the
norms according to the conflicts learned.
The adjusting operation
is based
judgements.
on the participants' own value
improve the layout variants.
zones
and sectors.
They
may
They may change the dimensions
for
They may also choose different sector groups
or even different support principle alternatives.
After the adjusting process,
adjusted
again.
norms
and
the participants may use
start another cycle of operations
these
all
A number of these cycles are repeated until the design
over
is
satisfactory.
Repeating
layout
basic
these
variants,
operating processes for
different
the participants can figure out what
variants a given sector group can accommodate.
select
different
sector
groups in a
support
desired
preferred
After they
system
and
test
whether preferred layout variants can be accommodated in them, the
participants
a
support
evaluate
can have a better idea about the possible layouts in
participants
may
different support systems with different dimensions
and
structure they choose.
Thus,
the
relationships among its space elements.
At
this
completed,
stage,
participants
when
the
whole
evaluation
process
is
obtain a throughout understanding in all
the
norms to which the dynamic dwelling
final,
definite
dwellings,
are
set
design
This
comforms.
of norms about the support system and
expressed
in the final variations.
good
It is not
important where the participants start, but as long as the process
is completed and the support design is finished,
must
be
documented
all
the
to explain the layout possibilities
norms
of
the
support.
Such
variations
simply
formal
will
documents,
be
however,
do
used when a support has
not
dictate
which
been
built.
They
indicate the criteria used in the design and
possibilities.
different
Also,
they
the
are the means of communication among
participants in the design process.
and sub-variations can,
suggest
and probably will,
residents plan their own dwellings.
Other
variations
arise when individual
CHAPTER
CHAPTER 5
5.1
USING A COMPUTER IN THE PROCESS
MAN 'S WORK ........................................... 73
A. Norm-Setting
B. Operating
5.2
MACHINE'S WORK ....................................... 80
A. Information Maintained
B. Operations Performed
5.3
AN EXAMPLE ........................................... 86
"Computer-aided
uses
design"
a
a
computer as
So,
replaces pencils in the design process.
a
that
tool
computer-applied
design model developed here should achieve what a designer usually
work
creative
is still human work.
the
is not
machine
The
Thus,
design.
the drafting board during the course of
on
does
decision-maker that takes full responsibility for the design.
Using computers in architectural design,
architects may save
their time spent in the traditional way of working.
concentrate on the creative aspect of design.
assign
computers
Therefore,
tions.
And they can
To save time, they
calcula-
the tasks of routine work and trivial
they
into
can put more effort and time
the
creative design work which they prefer and are best at doing.
For architects interested in the use of computers, the important
issue
is not the program,
but the process of building
it.
The process presents a different way of looking at a problem or an
At
issue.
procedures
the same time,
it provides a vehicle
to achieve a goal.
study,
to
understand
As long as we have more and better
understanding about the design behaviors,
dent
to
elaborate a better computer model
we can feel more confifor
design.
In my
I followed this direction to explore the benefits and
to
dynamic
of
goals of using computers in the process
the
portray
dwelling design.
In a dynamic dwelling design, one has to evaluate the support
by examining whether the support structure can accommodate
design
the
dwelling
This is an issue of
quality.
the
variants which satisfy
generate-and-optimize
a
than
possi
layout
preferred
one.
criteria
test-and-satisfy
for
rather
Instead of generating
all
ble variations which include undesired ones, the participants
check whether a desired proposal is within the norms of
only
const raint.
it is reasonable and easy to
Thus
the
computers
apply
withi n their practical computational limit.
The better support for the dynamic dwelling design is the one
which
good
can
accommodate more layout variations of the
dwellings.
of
effort
variations
The evaluation process,
"trial-and-error".
system
therefore,
One has to test
and relations in the space elements.
is a huge
different
and different support systems with various
for
layout
dimensions
This is an issue of experie-
nce.
For people less experienced in designing dwellings, such as
users
and developers,
checking
all
these
they may spend a lot of time and effort in
layout
variations
and
different
support
systems.
Using
a computer can speed up the huge task of "trial-
and-error" in the evaluation process.
design
The
describe
the
step-by-step
but the relationships of operations in the design
sequences
roles of the participants as well as
the
their
and values.
not
possible but also an easy one to use
only
experiences,
It can make the indefinite design process
interests
a computer
ticipants
may
conceive
of
of these operations as a kit
may use this tool kit
with
The par-
systematically formulated and easily retrievable norms.
They
pro-
Therefore the design process itself is dynamic and depends
cess.
on
model here does not
at their convenvience in the
tools.
dynamic
design process.
the
When
whole evaluation process for
is completed,
design
their
suggested
own
layout
dwelling
A computer can document the final,
set of norms and possible layout variations
from the evaluation process.
plan
dynamic
all the norms to which the dynamic dwelling
design conform are determined.
definite
a
dwellings
variants
accumulated
Individual residents then can easily
with
these
retrievable
on the computer.
This
norms
makes
and
"user
participation" not only easy but also possible without the help of
an architect.
In the following,
operations
I will give a general description on
of the model without getting into the detailed
tion process of the computer model.
the
opera
task
This model divides the
into man's work and machine's work as follows:
il
S.
...
.
..
...
112
.
Il I HiH IlI!
w
-.. ..
a:i
:til
.
WWee
..
..........
.....
. .-
... jJ
.....
!.I
....
...
......
.- I
-2
:4.30
. ......
......
J
J
m
- a.
....... .....
3r-E46
(Fig. 5.1)
retes
Support Alternatives with Default Dimensions
r-
e2
.
5.1
MAN'S WORK
Since
this
there is no fixed sequence of operations in the model,
is just
a general description on
computer-applied
is from
The
the
dynamic dwelling design model.
values, experiences and intuition.
of
the
The description
the participants' point of view while using
sequence of the process depends on the
the
model.
participants'
roles,
They may start from any opera-
tion and return to it whenever they wish.
these
operations
operations into two aspects --
We can briefly separate
norm-setting and
operating,
as follows:
A. NORM-SETTING
* Select a Support Principle
In each
support
principle of the
four
zone distribution is already given. (Fig. 5.1)
. ...
......
.... .
....
...... ...
..
. .. .......
...........
....
...
...
.... ...........
~
I I~
SP-440
S1.4240
(Fig.
5.2)
v4;II:3300
alternatives,
Also the positions
and placements of ducts and stairs are accompanied.
rules
are composed in each alternative by means
Whenever
it is chosen,
the
of
The position
zone/sector.
the support principle should show default
dimensions and default position rules. (Fig. 5.2)
Decide Dimensions of Zones/Sectors
*
A
I!3I0 I
11
participant
dimension
for
120
-
dimensions
SV~240
Sl'=240
(Fig.
3M'=24
SI
240
each zone,
margin or sector.
the
The newly
then should be reficted in the drawing on the
default
set
up
screen.
(Fig. 5.3)
5.3)
Decide Position Rules of Functions
*
TSI.MS2,BS2
MS2
MS2,BS2
TS1,BS2,BS3
TS2,TS3.BS3
TS1 ,TS2BS3
TSI .TS2
MSI ,MS3
TS I
BS1
MS1,MS3
MSI.MS3
MSI.MS3
MS1 ,MS3
retain
may decide to change or
TS 1
TS2
TSa
MS 1
MS2
MS3
813S
852
B83
(Fig.
K.KD.L,MB,B2
Though
S,St,b,b1.b2,KI
L.D.LD
St.b,bl b2,K1
S
L.LD.MB
LiMB13.812
principle,
prefers.
the position rules are composed by the chosen support
a
participant may still add or alter rules
which
he
He first inspects each default position rule then makes
necessary adjustments. (Fig. 5-4)
5.4)
*
Decide Standards of Functions
With
the help of space charts,
a participant may choose the
desired standard range for each function.
By drawing lines on the
charts, the participants decide the minimum and maximum dimensions
as well as the minimum and maximum areas for each function.
(Fig.
5.5)
5.5)
(Fig.
* Select a Sector Group
..
....
.......
..
.
..
..
'...4.
...
. . .
(Fig.
participant may draw the party-wall lines on the screen to
A
choose a desired sector group.
-
. ..
The sector group chosen should be
both preferred within the contexts and valid in the support structure. (Fig. 5.6)
5.6)
B. OPERATING
*What space
functions fit MS1?
* What Functions Fit Here?
TS1
TS2
K.KD.L.Mb.B2
TS3
MS1
MSz
MS3
M8.81.82
SStb,bl,b2,K1
LDLD
St.b,b 1b.2,K1
into
a particular place in the sector group.
as9i
S
9S2
list
all the appropriate functions for the location according
L.LD.MS
L.#dR.Bl.t82
BS3
A
K.1,82
will
participant may ask the computer what functions
fit
The computer would
to
the position rules set up earlier. (Fig. 5.7)
(Fig. 5.7)
* Where Can This Go?
*Where can Master Bedroom go?
K
TSI -MS2.8s2,BS3
MS2.
M52, Sz
TS1,BS2,BS3
T52,TS. DS3
TsN ,T5Z.S3a
TSt ,TSZ
Ki
K9
TS1
L
D
LD
MB
81
OZ
MS
,MS3
(Fig. 5.8)
places
A participant may also ask the computer what possible
in the
computer
sector group a particular function will
would
list
all the possible places
fit
for
into.
the
according to the position rules set up earlier. (Fig. 5.8)
The
function
* Place Functions
!Ian
A participant may place each function into a zone or a margin
of
.
..........
I IL
dwelling
have
When all functions from the program of
been assigned a position in the
zoning,
a
a
basic
N
M-120
....
~
.- H2240
+
sector group.
the
:jN-30
~
~
variant has been hereby completed for testing. (Fig. 5.9)
SP-240
SI'-340
5.9)
(F ig.
* Show Contrasts
I IE1I~iI~lj IAll
The contrasts,
the function placed and the whole basic variant against the
TM-120
. ...
......
..
..
.. f..
..
LI
(Fig.
.
. .........
set
5.
~
)M
both local and global are shown by comparing
. R120
j~
up earlier.
norms
There are positional and dimensional violations
10
.300
in the
contrasts which a participant can use
as
references
to
adjust the norms or refine the layout variant. (Fig. 5.16)
* Remove Functions
SI
E4
1 I
A
TM
participant
may remove functions to adjust the
contrasts
RTM-10
...
+
+,
-~
-
-. ..
shown
M-120
5. 11)
Then he may reassign the
removed
functions to other positions in the zone/sector for testing. (Fig.
5.11)
(Fig.
in the testing process.
-n2-a40
* Switch Functions
AI
I.
II........
...
A participant may remove and replace functions altogether
to
*.*.
switch the positions of two functions in a basic variant.
This is
....
........
to
adjust
the
contrasts or to form another
basic
variant
for
:BM
-120
testing. (Fig. 5.12)
31'.240
(Fig. 5.12)
* Change the Position Rules
L
D
LD
MB
81
B2
K
K1
KD
S
St
b
TSI,MS2,BS2,BS3
MS2
MS2,BS2
TS1,BS2,BS3
TS2,TS3,BS3
TS1,TS2,BS3
TS1,TS2
MS1,MS3
TS1
BS1
MS1,MS3
MS1.MS3
adjust the norms,
To
a participant may go back to the
setting process and change the position rules set up earlier.
procedure
norm
The
is the same as the "Decide Position Rules" operation in
the norm-setting process. (Fig. 5.13)
(Fig. 5.13)
* Change the Standards of Functions
A
3a'
P5
participant may also like to change the
range to adjust the contrasts.
is the
standard
With a space chart, the procedure
same as the "Decide Standards of Functions" operation
the norm-setting process. (Fig. 5.14)
(F ig. 5. 14)
desired
in
* Change the Dimensions of Zoning
A
zones,
..........
and
... ....
A-240
Sl'.240
also like to change
or sectors.
margins,
the
dimensions
Dimensions
of
of
By going through each zone, margin,
procedure of changing is also the same
the
sector,
"Decide
may
participant
Zoning"
operation
as
the
norm-setting
in the
process. (Fig. 5.15)
(Fig. 5.15)
* Change the Sector Group
.
..
. . .
942
W
A participant may select another sector group for
evaluation
-20
9M
when all the possible basic variants have been tested, or when the
.......
I...........
sector group chosen is not suitable.
-"0
.
..
.
..... ....
The procedure is the same as
......
..
in the norm-setting process.
Changing a sector group, the parti-
cipant may retain other norms as the same. (Fig. 5.16)
(Fig. 5.16)
* Change the Support Principle
C*
R.120
IT1300
M
After
working a while,
a participant may conclude that
the
MM.4N
2-00
support
system
another
one.
is simply inappropriate,
and decide
to
choose
.M .120
-
S'-240
S'. 240
(Fig.
5.17)
f120
participant
changed,
the
may need to start the whole norm-setting process
all
If the support principle should
over again. (Fig. 5.17)
be
* Implement Basic Variants
The
placed
functions
set up earlier.
norms
in the sector group are
After the testing and
with
tested
process
adjusting
im'_ In7
have
~
~
M
~
3 ........
been
the design action
done and the results are valid,
of
3
functions
placing
in the site can be
implemented
as
a
basic
F-Is
variant. (Fig. 5.18.)
(Fig. 5.18)
* Document Norms
61
62
K
o
KO
0
bi
240
2140
190
160
270
150
150
POS1ITION &I X
330
420
240
330
460
270
210
".x
r..
460
732
240
460
200
:00
240
092
0623
200
24
240
420
240
420(
260
792
e
e492
92
420
440
330
04
20
210
=30
120
90
420
60
420
720
450
240
210
6160
400
300
540
240
040
200
200
240
;402
ig.
700)
(Fig.
6400
129400
49600
37800
89100
18000
13500
.In^
126600 792.663.723
-01600
100600
106900
216000
104600
43200
..
144000 209200
90000
1000
162000
1940
40
72000
740
0
420 100M
1200
20
106000
240
101200
129400
129400
140
194400
5. 19)
T92.793.66M
T91.82
After
testing
all
the preferred layout
a
par-
At
that
variants,
T1,M01.M62
TS
061.062
M61.M3
ticipant
may
conclude that the norms are
acceptable.
P4MCTIONS
2
I,-L.M9.
9:R1.,2
6.2.09
time,
all
necessary information on the functions and the
zoning
tDLD
00.b.41.42
2
are stored automatically in the computer data
base.
(Fig.
5.19)
L LO.0m
L.0E,61.92
In a
later stage,
the information stored can be
specific purpose of use.
retrieved
for
MACHINE'S WORK
5.2
The
computer tracks throughout the participants'
operations
by maintaining information and performing operations.
wing
contexts
will
computer-applied
describe
design
the
internal
model from the
The follo-
mechanism
computational
of
point
the
of
view.
A. INFORMATION MAINTAINED
There
base
are two categories of data stored in the computer data
-- support system and space functions.
there are three types of data -- names,
In each
category,
positions and dimensions.
The information can also be retrieved from the computer data base.
This
information
and
positions
system.
describes the permitted,
dimensions
actual
of functions related
to
or
the
suggested
support
Each change that the participant makes causes a change in
the date base.
In some
changes
as
therefore,
cases,
one
a consequence.
must
change initiates an entire
The norm
propagating
the
chain
of
database,
clearly represent dependencies among data items.
When
one datum changes,
all dependent data immediately change to
remain consistent in the data base.
* Data of Support System
The
namely,
support
system
the Top zone,
Rear zone.
TR,
Middle zone,
TM,
spatial
provides
the
relationships
of
Bottom zone,
five
zones,
Front zone and
MB, BF are margins between the zones.
Com-
each subdivided space can be named.
The
bined with the sectors,
zoning
in this case consists
spatial contexts
among them.
and
also
describes
the
In the data base there is a
list of functions considered appropriate for each zone or margin.
For
each subdivided space,
dimension and Y dimension.
minimum depth of a location.
adjacent
the major properties are
its
X
The dimensions of a zone represent the
While the dimensions of a zone plus
margins will be the maximum depth of a location to place
a function.
* Data of Space Functions
Space functions are named by the conventions of
living, dining, etc.
users,
i.e.
There are also position and dimension prope-
stored
rties
function
for each function.
The dimensional data for
each
are expressed by minimum and maximum dimensions for
width and depth as well as minimum and maximum area.
of function,
its
In the data
there is also a list of zones and margins considered
appropriate locations for each function.
B. OPERATIONS PERFORMED
The computer model contains three major parts.
Each part has
a specific task stated as follows:
* Set and Get Information
There
is a language for storing,
querying and changing
base which deals with position and dimension
data
properties
the
of
POSITIONS
B2
420
40
64.4
I 6400
T9
TS79 2 89
106900
D
.1
A
Tg
and revising information in the data base.
The
2162000
1440
192600 2200
TS,
991
viewing,
position rules initially accompany each support alterna-
420
10886
FUTOCT
MS3
This work includes setting,
T91.MS1.
1.MSI.
I
both zoning and functions.
TS2,TS2.
48600
420
540
72.000
57600
10=000
141200
1249600
This information is stored in the data base by listing all
tive.
WKD.L.M3.92
K:31.62
1,92.Me
the
approriate locations for each function and
appropriate
fun-
whenever
they
LLD
9
04.6.,L
St.b,D1,.2
296nn
176n
L 9.
(Fig. 5.20) Information Stored
ctions
want,
for each location.
The participants may,
call out these rules, add new ones or change specific ones.
(Fig. 5.20 a,b)
The
dimensional information is composed in each function and
space of the support system.
subdivided
There are both
desired
ranges
ranges for each function and possible dimension
dimension
for each location in the support system.
computer model also allows the subset of the database to
The
be
stored and retrieved in a more durable way.
be
should
variants
able,
at his discretion,
to store
The
participant
valid
the
basic
and all the necessary norm sets about the functions
and
support system.
* Check Norms
Checking
conditional
is a chain of reasoning processes,
situati-ons.
It starts from examining
rules for each input function in the sector group.
regarding
the
position
the
Next it deals
with a series of conditional analyses with respect of dimensions.
For
positional checking,
the computer simply checks whether
this location is valid for the function placed in it according
the
there
position
rules set up earlier.
For
positional
are only two things the participant can do:
to
violation,
either
change
the rules or relocate the function.
dimensional checking,
For
MaxX
menX
the computer compares the desired
dimension range of a function with the possible dimension range of
%10
~..
I000
MaxY
.
0000
- 00000b.
00000
I0000 00
____J.0000
the
location where the function is placed.
- - ,maxA
there
01
function placed in this location of the zoning is valid and accep-
mn
participant
A
or
function
(Fig. 5.21a) Desired Dimension Range
of the Function
ranges,
dimension
the
If not, a dimensional violation would be pointed out. (Fig.
5.22)
I I I I 1611
intersection of these two
is any
ted.
aaa
if
5.21a,b)
(Fig.
sector.
to
change the dimensions of
the
the
replace
then may consider whether to
zone,
margin
or
He may also reconsider the desired dimension range of the
function.
mInX,maxX
ma~xA
a" 40s
M4
-
saw ----
-
* Implement Input
- ---
---
---MOLnA
->
ixY
-- > InY
There are drawing tools to display on the screen the
structure,
min
me
100
3
They
space
charts,
functions placed,
support
and basic variants.
can also show the names and dimensions of each function
and
zoning with alphabets. (Fig. 5.23)
a
This graphic editing language must allow the computer to draw
-U3WEEE96 11111
(Fig. 5.21b) Possible Dimension Range
of the location
the
support
information
structure on the screen automatically
on
the support structure is set
or
whenever
changed.
the
(Fig.
It also allows the participants to select a sector group by
5.24)
drawing
000o
-
000000001..
-
the
(Fig.
party-wall lines.
5.25)
It also
the
allow
-
--
participants to decide a desired dimension range for each function
.0
0 o0000
0000000
00001
-
by drawing the lines on the space chart. (Fig. 5.26)
000000
...
form
Approximate dimensions and pos-itions are good enough to
a
basic
dwelling
must
(Fig. 5.22)
Intersection
long
so
variant,
design are not violated.
allow
the
participant
n
+
..-
9-300
(
5
place
to
functions
*
-
:-M240
N~
31'"240
30'244
(2.
~~
N212
(Fig. 5.24)
.4
I200....
=...........
.240
(Fig. 5.23)
language
approximately
II
TNf
240
. M 120
31'=a4
The graphic editing
the
on
imposed
without indicating precise dimensions or positions. (Fig. 5.27)
TMR120
......
. .....
as the constraints
(Fig. 5.25)
..
5.3
0[]LIL_[JL:
[Ij E
001[I
IrjR"
AN EXAMPLE
The process of this model for the dynamic dwelling design
There is not a step-by-step sequence of operations in
indefinite.
_
DOE1F
T
ILEIUUL]LE]
the
The sequence of operations depends on the roles of
process.
The participants can be
the participants who use this model.
LLX(\'hL]L1 LLi0I]LI
EMULLILLI-[ ][]1]L ]]1
.~~J0
,D
ra- r%) ro
(Fig.
W
(~01'0
W.
WJ
is
an
architect, a developer, or users involved in the design problem of
a dynamic dwelling.
(1
]1
The
- r
5.26)
developer.
following
is an example of possible process taken by
a
This example illustrates how this model helps a deve-
to explore a dynamic dwelling design for multi-family walk-
loper
up apartments in Taiwan.
Mr.
........
Iy...
a developer with a site in hand,
he is going
Hence,
the
model
user
of
suitable
to
apar-
build a field of dynamic dwellings for multi-family walk-up
tments.
S-t
Chen,
he has some notions about the site situation and
group he is working on.
Given these contexts and
dynamic dwelling design,
he is now going to
support system with appropriate dimensions
the
design
a
serve
which
rightly for the contexts he possesses.
(Fig.
5.27)
With
the
contexts in mind,
he starts with setting
up
the
criteria
access
for
to
a "good" dwelling from his
the occpupants with needs and
understanding,
he
Since
there
groups and basic variants,
begins
of
resources.
With
direct
this
chooses a support system with dimensions which
Then, he evaluates it by its
he thinks suitable for his program.
capacity.
experiences
are two levels of
variations
-- sector
used to evaluate a support system,
with choosing a sector group which is one of
the
he
desired
dwelling site within the contexts.
After
desired
selecting a sector group,
he then checks whether
basic variants are valid in the sector group and
they satisfy the criteria for good dwellings.
whether
The basic variants
are generated by placing functions in the sector group.
basic
the
variant from the contexts has been made and tested,
When one
he may
procede to another basic variant until all preferred possibilities
have been exhausted.
During the checking process,
he might find contrasts between
the norms set up earlier and the desired layout
own value judgement,
his
or
Under
he then may go back to revise the norms
just cross out the layout variants.
sions
variants.
He may change the dimen-
of the support systme or may even decide to choose
another
support alternative.
After checking different layout variants and
different support systems with different dimensions,
out
with
a
support
design which
is satisfactory
he can
come
within
the
contexts he is working on.
Finally,
design
by
variants.
they
then
he finishes the exploration of the dynamic dwelling
documenting all these final norms and possible
layout
When individual residents get into the process
later,
can
use these documentations as suggestions
their own dwelling.
to
plan
CHAPTER
CHAPTER 6
6.1
THEORETICAL BACKGROUND OF THE DESIGN MODEL
RECOGNITION PROCESS ...................................92
A. System for Good Dwellings
B. System for Support Structure
6.2
EXPLORATION PROCESS .................................. 96
A.
B.
C.
D.
6.3
Generating
Testing
Adjusting
Documenting
CHARACTERISTICS OF THE MODEL ........................ 100
A. Dynamic Dwelling Design
B. Computer-Applied Design
final
In this
-- a
may
discussion
this
of
study
apartments
theoretical
The
in Taiwan.
In addition,
such
an
for
model
from
the
examination
may
answer some questions that have arisen
model.
in this
developed
computer-applied dynamic dwelling design
walk-up
multi-family
the
present
it is appropriate to
for the design model
background
theoretical
thesis
chapter,
stimulate further theoretical studies in the future.
It explains
A design model describes the process of design.
However, it is difficult to describe a design
the way to design.
process
because
imagination,
intuition,
design
it includes so many intangible elements such
and creativity.
as
However, describing the
behaviors
process may help designers understand their own
in designing and thereby improve their design ability.
The
usefulness
adequacy
as
of
step-by-step
operations
sequence.
not
intuition,
aid
its
on
only
to
raise
The design process described here is not
It does not describe the sequence
but the relationships among
constitute a kit of tools.
and
design model lies
a description but on its value as an
effectiveness in design.
a
a
them.
These
of
operations
With different experiences, interests,
designers may use this kit of tools in the design
process at their convenience.
Looking at design in this way,- we may separate a design task
into
two aspects of expertise --
recognition and
that help to make design decisions.
exploration
--
Architectural design requires
the abilities to recognize patterns in built-environment, and then
to organize spaces and materials based on that understanding.
recognition
The
ability enables a designer to observe patterns from a
set of variations and to set up systems describing patterns.
The
exploration ability enables designers to make variations which are
subject to these given set of rules in the systems. (Fig. 6.1)
(Fig. 6.1)
RECOGNITION PROCESS
6.1
man-made environment always reveals
The
rules
which
can
be
used as
guidelines
for
consistent
certain
Through
design.
analyses
on space morphology and space needs over time,
generate
explicit rules to describe the
The
built-environment.
guide
rules or principles can then be used to develop a system to
design.
may
one
Though these rules are not universally true, they reflect
specific contexts of time, space, and people involved.
Recognition
searches
The
From
to
of
solutions.
design
solutions.
for specifications of desired properties
specifications
serve as the criteria for
the recognition process,
It
process.
is a kind of problem-formulation
one can observe and generate rules
form systems guiding the design.
rationally
These rules are
and
retrieved
and used as coordinates for individual
easily
be
explicitly formulated so that they can
organized
The
decision.
term
"system" and "variations" are ways of indicating
that
the
environment can be described on the basis
the
of
ideas
systemic
rules which the observer can recognize from the built environment.
In any design problem,
there is always a site and a set
of
The
elements.
elements
are
placed
in the
the
So,
site.
participants in the design process must have 1) the description of
the
2) a defined set of elements that can be used in the
site,
3) data
site,
on the locations of
elements,
one
to
relative
another, and 4) data on the locations of elements in the site.
solve the dynamic dwelling design problem,
the information on the
a
the elements must be described explicitly as
and
site
To
system
all the participants can understand in order to communicate
which
with ease.
In the dynamic dwelling design process,
HIGHER LEVEL
SITE
SYSTEM FOR SUPPORT STRUCTURE
the
support
problem
systems
structure
good
6.2)
can
accommodate
the
be seen as the relation
in two levels.
preferred
layout
Thus the
-- the
between
lower
space
two
One is the space system for the
-- the higher level.
dwellings
structure
(Fig.
can
whether
variants which satisfy the criteria for good dwellings.
design
LOER LEVEL
ELEMENTS
SYSTEM FOR GOOD DVELLINGS
structure
one checks
support
And the other is the system
level.
The
system
for
for
support
provides information on the site which will accommodate
the space elements of the system for good dwellings. (Fig. 6.2)
A. SYSTEM FOR GOOD DWELLINGS
A
system
is a
set of
clearly
defined
description of the relationships among them.
system
for
dimensions
good
and
dwellings
functions.
are
The
spaces
a
The elements in the
identified
relationships among
elements are their relative positions.
plus
elements
by
their
the
space
These positions depend on
their dimensions, functions, and other properties.
From
functions,
sizes,
formal
one
shapes,
and
systematic
analysis
on
spaces
on
may obtain orderly and clear information
and possible layouts of each function.
elements in a set have been defined,
space
set
a
and
the
Once the
standards then can be
on
up in the positions of spaces relative to each other
the
basis of the functions.
A set of coordinated standards can be used to describe what a
"good"
dwelling
is.
Such
a
combination
description of the system for good dwellings.
pre-determined
span
These
of time,
standards
agreements,
which
of
standards
These standards are
are only valid for a
within specific contexts and for specific
always reflect certain value judgements
participants involved in the design.
is a
specific
people.
of
the
B.
SYSTEM FOR SUPPORT STRUCTURE
A
support
accommodate
structure in the dynamic dwelling
a variety of dwelling layouts.
design
This means that
is also a combination of spaces as a space
support
should
system.
The
support structure is the environment which accommodates the
elements of the system for good dwellings.
the
space
A support system is a
set of formally defined elements and relationships among them.
The
elements of this space system are the spaces defined
"sectors"
by
the
floors,
walls,
and columns
of
the
as
support
These spaces are also related to one another according
structure.
to certain conventions by the people involved.
formal description is needed not only to make
A
explicit
system
design.
floorplan
What
structure.
a dwelling type is recognized
by
be
a
system
for
It gives reference positions
and limits the size of functions which may
is called
combination
we use the "zoning" concept to contain
on dimensions and locations of spaces in the
support
space
dwelling
but also can be applied in the dynamic
To achieve this,
information
for
this
the
placed.
particular
of zones with information on locations and dimensions
of spaces in the zoning.
EXPLORATION PROCESS
6.2
The
kind
exploration
of
process of a dynamic dwelling design
solution-investigation
designers
organize
understanding
spaces
from
the
In this
process.
and material elements
recognition
process,
based
process.
is a
on
During
the
the
exploration process, designers select and distribute elements that
are
subject
expressed
to
by
a given set of norms.
This set
two space systems in two
different
of
norms
levels
are
-- the
system for support structure (the higher level) and the system for
good dwellings (the lower level).
two
These
levels
by
means
of
operations
the selection and deployment of lower level
concerning
functions,
space
connected
are
in the
Designers
variation.
support
select
a
structure,
elements
elements,
level
higher
on the lower
level
and
distribute them in the environment provided by the higher level.
The
operations
can be considered as one
phases of operations exit -- generating,
These
documenting.
process
of
a
operations
which
in which
testing,
are
adjusting, and
in the
design are always based on the norms
several
exploration
set
in the
recognition process.
A. GENERATING
set for design are useful not only because they can be
Norms
a
knowledge for evaluation but
of
body
also
catalyst for the creation sphere in design.
arbitrary
of
kind
creative
leap,
as
heuristic
an
Since generating is a
use
designers
heuristically as empirical sources for cognitive design
in the generating process.
to
solutions
working
search
on.
for
dwelling
decisions
Designers use their vision of eventual
clearly define the design
more
problem
they
And the vision can also guide designers with
answers.
design,
norms
In the generating process
of
a
are
their
dynamic
the designers use available information on both
space systems, the system for support structure and the system for
good dwellings, as heuristical sources.
This information can then
stimulate design innovations and help designers conceive preferred
layout variants for a good dwelling.
B. TESTING
After proposing a tentative design variation,
designers step
against
the
variations
design
array of norms set for the design in the
an
recognition
searching
Testing in the design process replaces blind
process.
alternatives with an intelligent one that uses explicit norms
for
to
a critical eye to compare
with
backward
design variations.
evaluate
variations
layout
This
systems.
In a dynamic
design,
dwelling
are compared with the norms of the
two
space
means that the preferred layout variants must
be
accommodated by the system for support structure. In addition, the
have
variants
to satisfy the criteria from the system
for
good
From this testing process, one may learn the contrasts
dwellings.
between the design variations and the norms.
C. ADJUSTING
After
designers
the
learning
contrasts
from
the
testing
process,
the
step forward again to adjust the relations between
design
variations proposed and the norms the proposal intends
meet.
To adjust the relations,
design
variations
or
design
variations
according to the norms they
They
to
designers may either refine
the
improve
the
revise the norms.
They may
intend
to
meet.
may also revise the norms by adding or changing the norms of
the two space systems.
While adjusting,
for the next creative leap.
designers are preparing
Using the adjusted norms, they start
another operation cycle all over again.
A number of these cycles
are repeated until the design is satisfactory.
D. DOCUMENTING
A
support
structure
should
definition,
in the
dynamic
dwelling
design,
by
provide as many desired layout variations
as
possible.
Designers repeat the cycling design process to evaluate
different
layout
variations and different support
different dimensions and relations in its space
this
determined
to which the dynamic dwelling design
definite
final,
set
of
norms
are in the
structure and in the system for good dwellings.
documented
design.
also
to
for
are
This
support
The norms must be
of
the
support
Such formal documents indicate the criteria in design and
suggest
design.
explain the layout possibilities
norms
conforms.
system
with
After
elements.
all the
evaluation process is completed,
whole
systems
They
the possible layout variants in a dynamic
dwelling
communications
between
provide
the
means
of
different participants who may join the design process later.
6.3. CHARACTERISTICS OF THE MODEL
A. DYNAMIC DWELLING DESIGN
The theory behind this design model can be described as using
the concept of a "system".
space
system
in which
relationships
system
spaces
are
components,
indicated
rests on "agreements"
and
expressed
The
in the
elements and their rules of distribution in space.
of
among a group of people
conventions
simply
the
rules.
these egreements are not necessarily an universal
However,
but
the
among these spaces conform to certain
thus
selection
Every building can be considered as a
problem.
system
is a variation of that system.
in a
involved
composition of elements allowed
One
design
truth
within
a
must
be
as
a
The variation
arranged according to the relational rules of that system.
This
design
developmental
model
process.
initially coherent.
applies
The
the
design
process
norms given to the design
are
not
Yet the norms emerge as the problem is being
explored. As the process makes contrasts apparent, designers learn
from
it
definition
and
and
realize a shortage
problem-solution
of
norms.
proceed
Hereby,
problem-
simultaneously,
and
100
designs develope cumulatively.
on
draw
the
Through
problem.
their
improve
designers can progressively
process,
time
designers can at any
rules to refine the
additional
exploration
Also,
work by adjusting proposed ideas or revising norms.
in the next.
decisions
cycle may determine
in one
A decision
The design process repeats a
operations again and again.
for
contexts
the
of
series
The design can be finished completely
or decisions can be left unmade for others joining the work later.
(Fig. 6.3)
basic
Another
interventions.
by
once
provide,
They
While
made,
here
the
context
for
"level".
of
is that
of
rules.
lower
level
they find themselves in a context composed
higher level variant.
a
raised
the same level follow an agreed-upon set
at
Variants
concept
In this manner,
a
designer
accepting another designer's higher level variants
himself
context.
In sequence,
finds
as
a
he hands down a solution for someone else
who can make design decisions on a lower level later.
final
anrid so on...,
(Fig.
6.3)
also
In this design model, the design can be left unfinished.
The
criteria
and
set
to
of norms are documented to indicate the
suggest
the possibilities for those who join
the
work
101
later.
Using
provide
the means of communication for different participants -in
the
this concept in the dynamic
process.
dwelling
design,
we
Individual residents can plan and change their own
dwelling to reach the dynamic dwelling design.
B. COMPUTER-APPLIED DESIGN
This design model is a constraint-satisfaction problem rather
than
an
optimization one.
With the
concept
optimization,
can not recognize the best alternative until they
designers
given
constraints
begin
to
with
the design are
a
in this model,
But,
seen all of the possible alternatives.
Designers
of
not
simple problem
they
the
completed.
initially
and
have
cumulatively
develop into more complex problems.
It is difficult for a computer to generate all the admissible
alternatives within practicable computational limits.
Besides, it
is meaningless to generate all possible variations which
undesired
computer
ones.
to
check
However,
whether
it is reasonable and
a desired
proposal
inculde
for
the
is within
the
easy
constraints.
Satisfication means a degree of acceptability in fitness of a
102
form
in question
satisfication,
of
and
its
contexts.
contraints
adjusting
concept
This model then enables designers to deal
multiple constraints simultaneously.
as
of
with
It also treats the tensions
heuristical sources
With this model,
resulations.
the
designers check desired variants against the norms
constraints.
among
With
to
generate
creative
we introduce rational testing and
along with creative generating.
This not only
allows
creative imagination flow in the design process but also finds the
feasibility
of
computer
applications in the
rational
testing
process.
103
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