Inspiration
My work is inspired by the architecture of Santiago Calatrava, particularly through the use of fluid, organic, and rhythmic forms. Like him, I aimed to create a structure that evokes lightness and movement, using the repetition of lines to generate a harmonious and dynamic aesthetic.
However, I chose to adopt a more minimalist approach by simplifying the shapes and focusing on pure symmetry. While Calatrava often incorporates complex structural functions into projects such as bridges or train stations, my structure leans more towards abstraction and pure aesthetics, while drawing inspiration from his biomimetic language and architectural innovations.
1 – Create the curve
Start by creating a line defined by two points. To do this, determine the length of the line by adjusting the coordinates along the y-axis, which allows you to control the distance between the two points.
Next, create a catenary chain between these two points. A catenary is a specific type of curve that connects two points under the effect of gravity. You can adjust the length of this chain using a length slider, allowing you to modify the curve’s shape smoothly.
Once the catenary chain is created, it’s necessary to position the curve on the correct plane. To achieve this, you can use the ‘unit z’ option, ensuring that the curve is properly oriented in space relative to the axes.
By combining these different blocks of commands, you can modify various parameters of the curve, such as its length, height, and overall dimensions, to achieve the exact shape you need.
2 – Duplicate and move the curve
First, it is necessary to duplicate the existing curve and move the copy. Once the duplication is done, start by modifying the scale of the second parabola. This involves changing the values along the x, y, and z axes to adjust the curve according to the desired dimensions.
Next, adjust the center of the parabola to ensure it is positioned correctly at the specific location where you want to evaluate the curve. This change in the center allows you to better control the orientation and position of the curve in space.
After these modifications are made, move the duplicated curve along the x-axis. This movement will place the curve in the exact location you want.
Finally, connect this second curve to the first one by adding a new line that links them together. Be sure to maintain the second curve’s own scale, which may require additional adjustments to ensure both curves are proportionally correct relative to each other.
3 – Create multiple curves and generate the shape
Start by duplicating all the blocks related to the second curve, and then adjust the x-factor to move it through space. By modifying this factor, you can position the second curve in the desired location while maintaining the overall structure. The next block to be inserted allows a rotation of the two curves located at the extremities. This command brings us closer to Calatrava’s vision, with elements stretching outward.
At the end, use the «loft» block to connect all the points on the three curves. This operation will create a surface by linking the curves together. The loft generates a seamless and continuous transition between the curves, forming a three-dimensional shape.
It is important to follow a specific order when connecting the curves to the surface, as this order can significantly affect the final shape. To achieve the desired result, first connect one end of the first curve, then connect the curve in the center, and finally connect the other end. By following this sequence, you ensure that the surface is properly formed with a smooth transition between the curves.
4 – Create the panels
Start by creating panels using the «isotrim» function. This function allows you to divide a surface into regular sections, forming panels. These panels can be used to create more complex structures or to add variety to the surface.
To increase the complexity of the model, you can remove some panels from the surface. To do this, add a «random reduce» function, which will determine which panel(s) will be removed.
To control precisely the number of panels removed and their placement on the surface, use several sliders. These sliders will allow you to adjust both the quantity of panels to be removed and their distribution across the surface, giving you the flexibility to customize the visual effect in a detailed and dynamic way.
5 – Add thickness to the structure
To add thickness to the structure, start by duplicating the existing surface. Use an «offset» block to shift this surface, creating a parallel copy of the original surface. The distance between these two surfaces can be controlled using a new «slider.» This slider will allow you to precisely adjust the thickness of the gap between the surfaces, providing great flexibility in defining the desired thickness.
Next, duplicate the panels of the surface again using the «Debrep» block. This block will manage the decomposition and duplication of the elements of the surface, ensuring that the panels retain their shape and organization while being replicated.
6 – Create an original structure
To create a more original and complex structure, start by adding the «explode» function. This function allows you to divide the structure into several distinct segments, giving you the ability to work on each segment individually. By separating the structure in this way, you gain more flexibility to adjust the shape and configuration of each part.
Next, to make the structure smoother and more rounded, apply a «Pipe» surface to the resulting segments. The «Pipe» surface will wrap around the segments with a curved shape, giving the structure a softer and more organic look, instead of a rigid, angular geometry.
Finally, you can control the appearance and dimensions of this «Pipe» surface using anothers «Slider.» This slider will allow you to adjust properties such as its radius or thickness, giving you full control over the structure’s appearance and allowing you to achieve the desired effect.
