According to Zeara-Polo, signs and symbols describe the nature and ‘qualities of the dynamic object.’ It may indicate the form and context of something, or its functions and propeties through formal representation. A diagram, unlike signs and symbols, describe relationships and performances within a space, and do not have a ‘representational role for their dynamic object’. A diagram is said to be ‘linked to the tracing of the virtual’, meaning that it can be interpreted as a tool for visualising multiple layers of a dynamic object, such as space, time, cirulation, and organisation.

Diagramming Design Precedent

Photograph by John Gollings, 2 March 2016, Amanda Levete’s M Pavilion, Melbourne, Architecture AU, https://architectureau.com/articles/amanda-levetes-mpavilion-moves-to-docklands/, Accessed on 4 March 2020.

Herzberger expresses that it is important spaces are not designed to be too explicit in terms of its purpose and fucntionality. This allows the space to be more ‘flexible.’ In the case of Amanda Levete’s MPavilion, it encourages appropriation of use through its informal spaces. Some people may see the pavilion as a sculpture and choose to circulate through or around the structure. Other people may treat it as a shelter. By designing a space to be ambiguous, it creates opportunities for people to use the space according to how they interpret its function to be.

The learning intention of this module is to explore the concept of diagrams as a means of communication. The learning outcome will be reflected in my digital model of Amanda Levete's M pavilion. This model will be created using orthographic information of the pavilion. Through this task, I will inquire the idea of thresholds and circulation in a space, as well as key concepts of my precedent study.

Modelling Process

The modelling process began with a site analysis, where I measured the placements and heights of the poles. Then, I used the information collected on the site visit, as well as the elevations and plans given to create my model. I made sure they were scaled to the right size. I modeled the overall structure of the floor using the extrude tool, then added hatches and other detailing after.

Using sweep, I modeled the poles, then went on to model the roof. I used my site analysis information to accurately scale their heights and place the poles at the right spots. After that, I simply copied the repeating elements multiple times and arranged them to create the whole pavilion.

I executed Make2D on my isometric model, then exported it as a Rhino PDF. In my final step, I imported the PDF into Adobe Illustrator and adjusted the line-weights. I also made adjustments to some details.

Final Isometric Model

In terms of structure, I have come to discover that every part in this pavilion is different by varying amounts, especially the poles and roof pieces, which is why I believe it is necessary to present most of the pavilion. I kept most elements of the pavilion as every piece is interconnected and act as important reference points to the overall diagram. However, I chose to omit the roof and floor detailing in the final isometric model as I decided it was unnecessary information that was unrelated to the diagram.

Diagram-making process

The modelling process began with a site analysis, where I observed and recorded the thresholds, circulation paths and gathering places for my spatial-temporal diagram.

After inserting and organizing the thresholds and circulation information, I adjusted the heights of the model then executed Make2D before exporting them as Rhino PDFs. Then, I imported the files into Adobe Illustrator to add color and line weights.

I added colors, symbols and gradients to the threshold diagram. Using the same method, I added gradients and colors to the circulation area and landscapes, then added circulation paths to the circulation diagram.

Final Circulation Diagram

Final Threshold Diagram

This diagram reflects the main circulation area, general circulation paths, as well as the landscapes that influence them. The gradient shows the overlapping of similar paths taken, which indicates that people tend to cut through near the middle.

This diagram shows the thresholds as shown by the cones, gathering spots which are represented by the pink radial gradient, as well as the main landscaped in purple. The highlighted landmarks are a useful reference for where the thresholds and gathering spaces are defined.