S01E11* - Lumion

End of another week for my work integrated learning at Focus Architecture. Today saw me work another interesting project. I was given the opportunity to do some 3D Renders for a concept recently completed by focus architecture. The task was to produce some renders as part of a marketing package for potential buyers for a residential block at Gordon Park. The Idea is to create 3D renders to bring a yet-to-be-build property to life and is popular marketing strategy to secure the right buyer for the property. This process allows buyers to visualise the potential for future developments. 

To create these images I was able to edit the already existing Archicad Model, I updated the surface textures on the roof cladding, Walls, Windows, Doors and Awnings. I also added some wall cladding to the external walls and updated some of the layer combinations to show all the relevant components and objects.

I then imported the Archicad model into Lumion to add some final materials, vegetation and objects to complete the image. Lumion is great and it produces high quality images and videos quickly and is easy program to use. I then added some final touches in Photoshop to complete the image. The trick was to do all the surface and detailing in Archicad to minimise the amount of editing needed in Lumion. This meant less work to do in Lumion and meant I would have a more complete Archicad Model for any future work

Please feel free to share, comment and let me know what you think

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 After

Before

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I hope you Enjoy.
The Architect of Tomorrow..

S01E10* - Playing the Role of the Architect

Halfway through my uni work experience course and I have had the chance to get out of the office and do things i wouldn't normally do, Today I attended a meeting for a new project I have taken over which is for a set of units within Brisbane. The meeting was my first opportunity to meet the clients, town planner and project manager/compliance officer. It was interesting listening to the range of different compliance issues and town planning requirements that will need to be addressed. The clients are existing clients who understand what's required and have a clear understanding on what they're wanting. Overall not a lot of design changes but a few extra notes to be added as well as clarification on some important RL's for top of walls and concrete slabs. Also some issues with setbacks to be confirmed and updated to ensure the design complies. Focus Architecture are now getting a lot more of these types of projects, Not only is the work coming from new clients but existing clients coming back looking to start new and exciting projects.

After the meeting, I was given the opportunity to do some proposed sketches for a client

these layouts are constrained by existing walls which results in compromises to the planning which wouldn't occur if it was all new. however I prepared two different design options. It is great getting off the computer to do some hand drawing, unfortunately it's an acquired skill that will take time to refine. My main issue with hand drawing is drawing to scale to ensure accuracy, my other downfall is my lettering typically i use a cursive style of handwriting and find it rather difficult to do block lettering. Like I said, it's an acquired skill that needs refining .

I hope you Enjoy.

The Architect of Tomorrow..

S01E09* - Archicad Masterclass

Today at work I spent the day becoming much more intimate with Archicad and some key features that will help improve the performance of  my future projects and will streamline my current processes and ultimately improve my Archicad models and drawings. Currently a lot of my projects are typically residential which are usually straight forward projects but I hope to be involved in larger scale projects which will require a better understanding of what Archicad can do and if possible push it to the limits. some of these features are

- Attribute Manager - Layers Combinations - Hotlinked modules - Model view options - Schedules

Attribute Manager

Allows me to adjust, delete, overwrite a variety of different attributes found within any Archicad models Layers, Layer Combinations, Pens & Colours, Pen Sets, Line Types, Fill Types, Composite Structures, Profiles, Surfaces, Building Materials,. Archicad also allows me to import or export any or all of these attributes from my model or other models

Layer Combinations

Using layer combinations is useful to when preparing different types of drawings, typically different drawings require different information or notes, the layer combination is a named set of layer settings that can be applied to hide or show particular layers as they are needed.

Hotlinked Module

This feature will be great for larger scale projects like town house or units that allow me to insert external Archicad file into my project, this will help me manage repetitive structures. I can modify all identical structures in one step by updating the module original source file, This will save time and effort.

Model View Options

This feature is similar to the layer combination as it's a set of predefined combinations that I can adjust, delete, overwrite depending on individual views or plans depending on their purpose for example floor and ceilings plans or drafting plans for site plans.

Schedules
This is a very powerful feature in Archicad, an interactive schedule, the Interactive schedule allows me to generate schedules for anything within the model element list or components lists, From itemising any and all objects within the model as well as calculating anything from material or surface areas. The interactive Schedule also allows me to edit any items that may of been drawn incorrectly all in real time.

I hope you Enjoy.

The Architect of Tomorrow..

S01E08* - Client Meetings

Today was a new experience; usually my days are filled with sitting in front of the computer drawing up a variety of projects for a wide spectrum of clients. I do have some correspondence with clients, engineers, town planners and certifiers through either email or phone calls to discuss some of the projects and any questions or changes they may have or need. Though today I was able to shadow my employer into two different client meetings and also went on site to a project which I was involved with during the initially concept stages and early documentation.

The first meeting was a follow-up meeting with the client and the project manager presenting some CAD concept drawings to discuss some of the design options we have completed for the client. We presented the client with three different options that they had asked for. Throughout the meeting the scope of work increased along with changes to the one of the three options we had proposed to both the client and the project manager. It was an interesting experience to meet both a client and project manager and meet with them about a project I have been involved in throughout the initial concept stage.

The Second meeting was with a new client who want to extend their existing house adding extra sleeping and living spaces to accommodate their growing family. When we first arrived and after the initial meet and greet, the owners walked us through their home describing their vision. After the initial walk through the property we sat with the owners explaining what we do and the services we offer. Through this process we were able to show them previous projects along with variety of samples to clearly show them what is typically involved and included as part of the concept and documentation stages. We also answered any questions they had about the project.

It was a nice change to get out of the office and interact with both existing and new clients. I have always felt comfortable talking with people and found the whole experience enjoyable and hope to have more face time with clients and other consultants, to make me and more competent designer and drafter.

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I hope you Enjoy.
The Architect of Tomorrow..

S01E07* - Schedule of Finishes 2.0

Back in the office today, After updating some of the company online profiles i spent today reviewing the companies schedule of finishes and standard notes which is normally issued to the builders and clients. These documents help the builder and client understand the scope of work, whats included and who is responsible. To that end I was tasked with the job to create another document that could be issued to clients that would itemize the different parts involved in both the construction and design of any project. this document would be created before construction begins and is tailored specifically for their project as a visual aid and checklist that they can refer to throughout the construction process will be a important tool for both clients and builders.

Below I have attached what the new document could look like and what it may include. 

        

       

I hope you Enjoy.
The Architect of Tomorrow..

S01E06 - Renovate, Relocate or Detonate

This is a question that will plague all homeowners at some point and there is no easy answer as it will depend on so many factors as every situation is unique. Renovate or detonate or is it time to sell and move on. Typically so many factors to consider i.e. Lifestyle and budget.

Some homeowners seek out the right place to live; they locate the places that will satisfy their needs, areas close to work, schools, shopping facilities, parks or other lifestyle factors. In this scenario the homeowner lives in the right place, but in the wrong house so found renovating the most practical solution.  However if the location doesn’t meet your needs or lifestyle then perhaps the idea of a renovation can't be justified and it’s time to move on. However there are still things to consider when relocating, you may not find the house that is perfect for your needs, there will always be drawbacks, there is the question if selling your current home will cover the amount needed to buy the home you want? What are the chances that you will have enough money to buy the home in the area that will complement you or your families lifestyle? Relocating may be the easiest option to consider but can prove to be an expensive exercise

Costs for Relocating
-      Stamp Duty fees
-      Real estate agents Commission
-      Advertising
-      Storage and Moving costs
-      Refinancing mortgage

Homeowners that do choose to stay are still left with the decision to renovate or detonate. You have a house that just doesn’t meet your needs; it is often difficult to know what to do. However there are so many factors to consider like site specific factors, council regulations and codes. Sometimes the condition of the house and the extent of renovation will also determine which option would best suit. Knocking down an existing house will require the appropriate council approvals. Sometimes retaining an existing house could cost more than a new design, items such as any structural requirements, rewiring, replacing roof or any other hidden costs involved with the existing home. However if you want to renovate you must also consider the implications that come with any renovation.

-    Local Council approvals
     No renovations are possible without first getting the appropriate approval from local              planning authorities. This will require formal development application for the property            and will require submitting the detailed building plans and proposals
-   The implications with living on a building site
-   The time and effort meeting with builders/contractors and consulting with architects and       engineers reviewing any and all relevant plans and forms.

The next question comes down to the fear of over capitalising on your house. It is important to ensure that you minimise the risk of overcapitalising while adding value. Owners must ensure that the cost of the renovation doesn't outweigh the market value it will add to your own. Some owners can be disillusioned that spending a great deal on renovation their home will reap thousands more in the resale. this is not always the case. The best way to avoid this trap is to do the appropriate research and check the investment potential of your area, It's best to research local real estate sales history and the market to understand what existing home are selling for and what profit if any have been made over the last few years.
 I found this article which I thought was very insightful and may make you think twice.

"Overall, you need to do some homework and weigh up the advantages and disadvantages of each option" - Holly Jones

http://www.tonycootearchitect.com/Tony_Coote_Architect/Talks_and_articles/Entries/2007/7/30_Renovate_or_detonate.html


I hope you Enjoy.
The Architect of Tomorrow..

S01E05* - Houzz Part 2

Today I spent the day finalising and filtering through various completed projects to upload onto Focus Architecture's Houzz Profile. I was able to find enough images for 7 different projects completed over the last few years. After updating the projects on-line it was discussed that more time and effort will need to be allocated to maintain the Houzz profile. This will mean liaising with a variety of people including clients, builders, photographers and other Focus architecture team members to continuously supply up-to-date projects and images to upload on-line. These Projects can potentially become used in a variety of applications; initially they will be used to update the Houzz Profile. They have the potential to be incorporated on both the company website as well as the business Facebook Page. Further to that the Images and Projects could be used to create more comprehensive marketing packages which can be issued to new clients.

Please feel free to check out the projects uploaded this week showing a variety of residential designs and renovations throughout the greater Brisbane area. I have attached a sample of the work already on the website, 

I hope you Enjoy.

The Architect of Tomorrow..

Focus Architecture Houzz Profile

The Gap Residence

The Grange House

The Alderly Home

The Cashmere Home

S01E04 - Cinema4D

Hey Guys

I have been testing some of the features in Archicad 18 and Cinema 4D. I thought I would have a crack at doing a white clay render and see what the outcome could be, I am pretty happy with how they came out, not a bad effort for my first attempt using Cinema 4D, I Think next time I will increase Render quality just to give me a higher quality output.

These two examples are from the Team at Focus Architecture which I have been involved in, They are real Projects which I have applied my own twist. Feel free to check out the Focus Facebook page or Website to see these and other Projects.

Please Comment on what you think

Before

After

Before

After

I hope you Enjoy.

The Architect of Tomorrow..

S01E03* - Houzz

Today is the first day doing my work integrated Learning for my Bachelor Degree. Even though I currently work in the industry where i am tasked with detailed documentation, today i was able to try something a little different. The aim for the work integrated learning aka 'work experience' is to complete tasks and duties that is not detrimental to the day to day running of the office but will still have a positive impact. Between my employer and myself we decided to update and catalogue new marketing material for Focus Architecture and improve the companies online presence, in particular through the Houzz Australia website.


HOUZZ
Houzz founded in 2009 and arriving in Australia in 2014


''Houzz is the leading online platform for home remodeling and design, providing people with everything they need to improve their homes from start to finish - online or from a mobile device.
From decorating a room to building a custom home, Houzz connects millions of homeowners, home design enthusiasts and home improvement professionals across the country and around the world. With the largest residential design database in the world and a vibrant community powered by social tools, Houzz is the easiest way for people to get the design inspiration, project advice, product information and professional reviews they need to help turn ideas into reality''From decorating a room to building a custom home, Houzz connects millions of homeowners, home design enthusiasts and home improvement professionals across the country and around the world. With the largest residential design database in the world and a vibrant community powered by social tools, Houzz is the easiest way for people to get the design inspiration, project advice, product information and professional reviews they need to help turn ideas into reality''

http://www.houzz.com.au/

Houzz allows me to upload a variety of projects that Focus Architecture has completed and also add any inspirations from other sources to create Ideasbook. this will allow potential clients to understand not only the options but also the potential and opportunities that they may apply to there own projects.

I spent today organizing  project files and other marketing material to compile a shortlist of projects and images to post online. Further to that, I will still need to invite people to follow, share, like and or comment on of the online material to really grow Focus Architecture's online Presence. I have only started this process and will need more time to update Focus Architecture's Houzz Profile.

Please feel free to visit there profile through the link below and be sure to comment, like and or follow.

Focus Architecture Houzz Profile

I hope you Enjoy.

The Architect of Tomorrow..

S01E02 - 101 Things I learned in Architecture School

Hey Guys

I wasn't sure how to start my new blog off, so i decided to just plug one of my favourite books that I have in my bookcase. 101 Things I learned in Architecture School was one the best investments I have ever made. Matthew Frederick’s book shows students how to successfully approach numerous design and presentational principles from ‘how to draw a line’ to ‘hand-lettering’ and ‘how to sketch a one-point perspective of a rectangular space’. Matthew Frederick also offers numerous clever and noteworthy points like ‘how an architect knows something about everything. An Engineer knows everything about one thing’. This book offers a wide-range of information for any student interested in design.

I hope you Enjoy.

The Architect of Tomorrow..

S01E01 - The Architect of Tomorrow

Welcome

The aim of this blog is to keep a reflective log of the experiences and opportunities of working within industry and to discuss this in the broader context of the architectural profession. I will aim to share information from any and all of the things I am exposed to, which may include

- Project Management

- Design Process

- Documentation Processes

- Teamwork/collaboration

as well as the ethical, social and discipline focused responsibilities of working within the industry. I will aim to include my reflection on my thoughts and learning experiences through the next few months. I will also reflect and include previous drawings and projects from my studies so far showing my journey so far as an Architectural Student sharing my personal experiences as well as any general observations or topics that are unique, notable or even unusual.

I hope you Enjoy.

The Architect of Tomorrow..