Architecture 407:
Advanced Computer Applications in Architecture
Instructors: Karen Kensek and Doug Noble, AIA
Fall 1995
The purpose of this class was to demonstrate the power of computer modeling in architectural projects, through the use of three different platforms: form*Z on the Mac, AutoCAD and 3D Studio on the PC, and Wavefront on the SGI. The subject matter for the course was Native American artifacts: specifically, in my case, the Northwest Tribes. The first three projects dealt with minor artifacts; the final project was an example of the typical architecture of the culture.
Raven Head Wood Carving
Modeled and rendered in form*Z on a PowerMac. My absolutely first use of form*Z!
A "full size" view is also available.
Ceremonial Dagger
Designed in AutoCAD Release 10 and exported as a 3-D DXF to 3D Studio R4, where material properties were assigned and the scene rendered. An enlarged view of the entire scene, as well as a detail of the handle are also available.
Cultural Tools
These are a few tools found in the cultures of the Northwest: a walrus-ivory seal club, a net-weaving comb, and a ceremonial war-pick.
They were modeled and rendered in Wavefront on an SGI workstation.
The Northwest Longhouse: Final Project
My final project consisted of researching and "building" a virtual model of the typical architecture of the Northwest Native American tribes. I chose the longhouse. The final views appear complicated, but most detail is actually the efficient use of image and bump mapping.
