Platonic Solids and Spatial Visualization

Abstract

In last decades computer graphics design systems emerged as key players in architectural design, on the one hand leading to a combination of parametric, process-driven architecture and applied geometry, and on the other hand, to a new role of architects as makers, and craft-people, able to bring together architecture as an interplay between art and craftsmanship. This unique dual perspective about architectural practice and education inspires this paper, which tries to analyze how a set of basic volumetric transformations can generate complex spatial outcomes. Using platonic solids as base volumes, we will explore different ideas, applying generalized extrusions, remesh schemes of subdivision and multiplication of the object's faces, and a set of tools to create high-genus meshes. Starting from these new objects, a set of solid wireframe structures will be created as well. The goal of this process is to create a basic guideline to explore the spatial design language: a set of illustrated steps to activate architectural inquiry and to generate innovative design solutions.