Notes on Architect Network Tour with Ken Clauson at 3XN
Introduction
Sponsored by Architect Network; offers online courses on tools like Grasshopper, Revit, Rhino, Twinmotion, and AI.
The tour focuses on architecture firms in Copenhagen, starting with 3XN.
Overview of 3XN
Head of Digital Practice: Ken Clauson.
Office consists of about 150 people in Copenhagen and 180 worldwide.
Mixed group including researchers, interior designers, and computational designers.
Open workspace environment, designed to avoid walls, promoting collaboration.
Office History
The office is located in a historic gunboat house factory, which has been transformed into a modern workspace.
The building itself exemplifies transformation, emphasizing adaptability.
Architectural Projects and Processes
Current Project: Arena in Munich for ice hockey and basketball, utilizing scripting and fabrication-focused design.
Collaboration with facade contractor from the beginning, showcasing a model-to-fabrication process.
Importance of direct communication with contractors to optimize design.
Transformation: Successful projects retain existing structures, like the tall building in Copenhagen, which maintained 90% of its core structure.
Computational Design Approach
Focus on parametric facades that are both aesthetically pleasing and environmentally driven.
Emphasis on the interplay between technology and design; computational design is part of the toolbox, not the sole focus.
Encourages designers to utilize technology creatively without losing the essence of artistic value.
Digital Fabrication and BIM Integration
Ken emphasizes the importance of BIM (Building Information Modeling) and computational design, stating that they coexist and enhance each other.
Current projects use both Rhino and Revit; they are increasingly migrating processes into BIM while maintaining a focus on design integrity.
Digital Twins: The use of digital twins is increasing in projects for better understanding and analysis.
Innovations from gxn
gxn (Green Architecture): Focuses on research and innovation in materials and technologies.
Example: Collaboration on bio-concrete to reduce carbon footprint.
Importance of integrating research insights from gxn into architectural projects at 3XN.
Future Directions and Technologies
Interest in AI and its potential applications in architecture, though caution is advised regarding over-reliance on automated tools.
Digital fabrication advancements, especially in timber construction, are a focal point; exploring how offcuts can be repurposed into functional design elements.
Advice for Young Architects
Important to keep a fresh perspective and be open to new ideas.
Tackle challenges head-on and don’t be afraid to explore outside your comfort zone.
Engage in discussions and networking; collaboration is key.
Balance technology use with fundamental architectural principles.
Emphasize both the design process and the importance of stepping away from the screen to find inspiration in the real world.
Closing Thoughts
2024 Outlook: Excitement about potential disruptions in the industry and the integration of game engines and metaverse concepts in architectural design.
The importance of creating a balance between digital and analog processes in architecture, promoting sustainable design practices.