I think of the design process as a creative journey, and I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to embark on my journey with Mr. Gehry. We often begin our design dialogue by defining the basic organizational principles for the project. These principles then guide our decision making throughout the subsequent design process.
Based on the initial concept sketches, we work with the team at the office to explore a variety of options with physical models. We make these models with wood blocks and code them with different colors to represent different functions. These different models are presented to clients and consultants for their input as the scheme is developed.
We begin to explore the aesthetic and formal expression of the architecture only after we have established a functional spatial organization. This process is again developed through the extensive use of physical models - a key way of engaging the team and the client in the design process.
At crucial milestones, the physical design model is digitized to create a 3D computer model (image on left). This computer model is then used to develop the design in detail. During the entire process, we would meet with the project team regularly as they evolve the technical aspects of the design into a complete set of construction documents (image on right).
During the entire process, we would meet with the project team regularly as they evolve the technical aspects of the design into a complete set of construction documents.
As we develop the construction documents in the computer, it is critical to make sure that the computer model is consistent with the final physical design model to ensure the preservation of our design intention. This convergence between the digital and physical is repeated throughout the design development process.
Using the master computer model as the basis for the production of construction documents facilitates a fully integrated project delivery process that improves communication between the construction team, and makes the project execution more cost effective and efficient.
The projects in this section were designed and executed during my time at Gehry Partners LLP (the office). I am grateful to Mr. Gehry and the team at the office for their generosity and support over the years. All intellectual property rights of these projects continue to be owned by the office unless otherwise mentioned. The narrative texts on the projects are entirely personal, they do not represent the views or opinions of the office, its clients or any other third party or organization.