Architectural Form Research Articles

Advancing architecture: Form-finding of architectural forms using comprehensive multi-objective optimization

Today’s architecture increasingly features complex, free-form buildings, facilitated by parametric design. Yet, these forms face significant challenges. In the current global energy crisis, early-stage optimization of free-forms for energy performance is essential. Also, digital fabrication, often required for such complex geometries, should be integrated into their form-finding. Furthermore, the distinct aesthetics of free-forms demand attention during form-finding. However, there is a lack in integrating these objectives in form-finding of free-forms. This paper presents and applies a comprehensive multi-objective optimization framework for the form-finding of a free-form building. Case study results show improvement in minimizing façade surface area, minimizing incident solar radiation in summer, and maximizing it in winter by 2.25%, 1.7%, and 1.4% respectively, compared to baseline form. Additionally, all façade panels are flat, and aesthetics are considered. These findings underscore the framework’s potential to generate energy-efficient, rationalized, and aesthetically appealing parametric forms that meet the demands of contemporary architecture.

Robust Face Detection and Identification under Occlusion using MTCNN and RESNET50

In today's rapidly evolving world, where technology is progressing swiftly, there is an increasing demand for facial recognition systems. Technologies are similar to digital forensics in that they can recognize people by scanning faces. However, one key problem they confront is dealing with covered or occluded faces, which might restrict recognition of faces in real-world situations. To overcome this issue, we created a system that is capable of identifying individuals even when their faces are veiled. We used the face detector algorithm called Multi-Task Cascaded Convolutional Neural Network (MTCNN) for face detection with 99.8% accuracy. Further we have conducted feature extraction and pre-processing on our self-created dataset. Our project utilizes the power of deep learning model: Residual Network (ResNet50), the form of deep neural network architectures well-suited for the job of features extraction. These features are matched by using Cosine similarity with accuracy of 92%. By leveraging the capabilities in the deep learning algorithms, this project provides a robust solution for automating the recognition of partially occluded faces.

Factors Influencing the Bond Strength between FRP Bars and Concrete and the Calculation Methods for Anchorage Length

Since the 21st century, developed countries such as Japan, the United States, and Europe have designated Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) as a key industry for development. Currently, FRP sheets, represented by carbon fiber fabric, have become an important material for structural reinforcement and are widely used in the renovation and reinforcement of various civil and industrial buildings. For example, in the early 1960s, the American company Marshall-Vega produced Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) bars to address the issue of salt corrosion in reinforced concrete structures in coastal and cold regions. In the design of the ArtScience Museum in Singapore, to ensure the integrity and smoothness of the architectural form, facilitate prefabrication and assembly of components, and meet structural, fire safety, and security requirements, the designers evaluated various materials and ultimately selected polyethylene resin-based GFRP panels. This paper employs a literature review methodology, first analyzing the factors that affect the bond strength between FRP bars and concrete, then reviewing standards to understand the calculation methods for anchorage length in different countries, collecting relevant experimental data, and finally analyzing the advantages and disadvantages of various anchorage length calculation methods.

Design Transformation Pathways for AI-Generated Images in Chinese Traditional Architecture

This study introduces a design transformation model for AI-generated Chinese traditional architectural images (SD Lora&Canny) based on Stable Diffusion (SD). By integrating parameterization techniques such as Low-Rank Adaptation (Lora) and edge detection algorithms (Canny), the model achieves precise restoration of the architectural form, color elements, and decorative symbols in Chinese traditional architecture. Using the Beijing Drum Tower as the experimental subject, statistical analysis software (SPSS V28.0) was employed to conduct a quantitative evaluation and comparative analysis of architectural images generated by the DALL-E, MidJourney, SD, and SD Lora&Canny models. The results demonstrate that the SD Lora&Canny model significantly outperforms traditional generation tools in restoration accuracy and visual fidelity. Finally, this study applied the SD Lora&Canny model to create the digital cultural product AR Drum and Bell Tower Fridge Magnet, showcasing its practical application in digital cultural creation and verifying its innovative potential in the digital preservation and transmission of Chinese traditional architecture.

Relationship between architectural design and sacred atmosphere in Reformed Church

Reformed Christianity is one of the Protestant denominational branches in Indonesia. The Reformed tradition exhibits distinct theological and liturgical characteristics compared to other Christian denominations. Consequently, architectural design must accommodate Reformed theological concepts while supporting its liturgical practices and doctrinal views. Although Reformed churches share a unified theological belief, their architectural forms vary significantly, influencing the sacred atmosphere within these spaces. In 2024, the Gereja Reformed Injili Indonesia (GRII) in Bandung inaugurated a new church building. Preliminary observations indicate that this church's architectural design diverges from typical Reformed churches, impacting the spatial ambiance. This study focuses on the relationship between the sacred atmosphere and the architectural design of Reformed churches, specifically examining the new GRII Bandung church. The research investigates the connection between the sacred ambiance and the architectural design of the GRII Bandung church. It seeks to provide insights for the academic community, contributing to theories and concepts related to church architecture in general and Reformed church architecture in particular. The findings are anticipated to offer alternative design approaches for Reformed churches and provide valuable input for church management policies. Ultimately, this study aims to lay the groundwork for more comprehensive future research in this area.

Architectural concretes for 3D construction printing

Introduction. One of the rising architectural trends of the present time is to increase the comfort and aesthetics of the territories of populated areas through artistic improvement, a significant role in which is given to various types of small architectural forms. The most budgetary and, at the same time, reliable and durable material for them is architectural concrete. The bottleneck in the use of concrete for the manufacture of small architectural forms is the relative difficulty of giving it complex spatial configurations. At the current level of development of concrete work technology, this drawback can be easily overcome through the use of construction 3D printing technology. The aim of the work was to develop effective architectural concrete for the manufacture of small architectural forms using the 3D construction printing method, based on composite binders containing weathered quartzite sandstones as a mineral additive, as one of the types of local energy-efficient raw materials. Materials and methods: The section presents comparative characteristics of weathered and unweathered quartzite sandstones.Results. The data on the dynamics of component grinding; compositions and characteristics of composite binders and fine-grained concretes based on them; results of manufacturing a pilot batch of small architectural forms using the construction printing method are presented.Discussion and conclusions. The description and analysis of the obtained experimental data are presented. The conclusions are formulated in which it is noted that for the organization of the production of modern small architectural forms, the technology of 3D construction printing is used, which allows the implementation of complex various spatial forms of products with any level of individualization without increasing costs. The developed molding mixtures confirmed the high efficiency of using weathered quartzite sandstone as part of a composite binder and technogenic sand. The introduction of the developed materials meets the requirements of energy and resource conservation, since the consumption of Portland cement and non-renewable natural resources is reduced.

Constructal Thermodynamics and its Semantic Ontology in Autopoetic, Digital, and Computational Architectural and Urban Space Open Systems.

This paper explores the intersections of constructal thermodynamics, and its semantic ontology within the context of autopoetic, digital and computational design in protocell inspired numerical architectural and urban narratives that are examined here as open systems. Constructal law is the thermodynamic theory based on the analysis of fluxes across the border of an open system. Protocells, as dynamic and adaptive open finite size systems, serve in this paper as a compelling metaphor and design model for responsive and sustainable manmade architectural and urban environments. The ability of protocells to harness energy, minimize entropy, and adapt to environmental changes mirrors the principles of constructal thermodynamics, which govern the flow and distribution of resources in complex self-organizing information open systems in nature. By applying these principles to digital architecture, this study investigates how relational dynamics between spaces, materials, and functions can create adaptive designs that "go with the flow" of ecological and cultural systems. The research demonstrates using the Gouy-Stodola theorem as a variational principle, how protocell-inspired processes facilitate exergy-efficient designs, minimizing waste while maximizing resilience and flexibility. The present through an applied case study argues for a paradigm where protocell digital architecture serves not only as an ecological and material model but also as a spatial narrative driver, blending constructal and digital tools with cultural mythos. Finally, this paper exploring simultaneously the semantic complexity of such systems, in turn, connects these constructal driven digital designs to broader méta-narratives, embedding cultural, symbolic, philosophical and functional predicates into architectural forms.

조선시대 경기 광주 일대 창마을의 형성과 분화 - 하남시 상사창동·하사창동을 중심으로

This article examined the historical origins of Sangsachang-dong(上司 倉洞) and Hasachang-dong(下司倉洞) in Gyosan(校山)-district of Hanam(河南), which were called ’Gogol’ during the Joseon Dynasty, based on historical records and archaeological excavation reports. The literary data on the Joseon Dynasty's Sachang-ri(司倉里), which is the predecessor of Sangsachang-dong and Hasachang-dong, is quite limited. Fortunately, since the 2000s, the results of archeological excavations in the Gyosan(校山) district have been reported to the academic community, and it has been possible to understand that the architectural forms in the area are similar to those of government offices and granaries sites built from the Unified Silla to Joseon periods. Based on this evidence, the article concluded that ’Sachang’ as a type of county(郡) institutions, was established in the areas of Sangsachang-dong and Hasachang-dong during the first half of the Joseon Dynasty.

Wooden temple as a marker of the Russian traditional identity

Wooden architecture is a special independent direction of the Russian traditional architecture. It is represented in Russia in its unique quality and diversity. This is truly a national architecture that has absorbed the mythopoetic and Christian worldview of the people. The concept of “Russian North” reflects the significant “Russianness” of the region. Here, all those perfect forms of wooden architecture were developed to continuously influence the entirety of Russian art for centuries. A wooden temple is the pinnacle of culture, its iconic heritage. The best religious buildings were created and preserved in the North.

Popular trends in the use of forged elements in the interior and exterior of residential and commercial spaces

The article systematizes and characterizes the most clearly manifested and popular trends in the use of forged elements in the interior and exterior of residential and commercial spaces. The relevance of this topic is due to the unique ability within the framework of the considered approach to combine aesthetic expressiveness, durability, as well as functionality. Modern architectural and design projects actively turn to this traditional art form, which requires an analysis of historical experience, technological achievements, and available opportunities. The purpose of the study is to identify the key trends shaping the role of forged products in the design of spaces, as well as to summarize the knowledge accumulated to date about the stylistic and functional aspects of their application. In the course of work, contradictions were discovered in the scientific literature: some authors focus on the need to preserve traditional technologies, while others emphasize the crucial importance of innovation to increase productivity and adapt forging to current requirements. The results demonstrate that the studied elements remain in demand due to their versatility, the ability to harmoniously integrate into various stylistic concepts, and create accents that emphasize the individuality of the space. The main trends are the use of wrought—iron stairs and railings, decorative grilles on windows, gates and fences, furniture with metal elements, loft-style lighting fixtures, balcony fences, garden accessories, small architectural forms, metal panels and art objects, openwork partitions. The article will be useful for architects, interior designers, specialists in the field of artistic metalworking, as well as researchers studying the history and development of decorative and applied arts.

The Vernacular Architectural Heritage of Abeokuta: History, Forms and Decorative Motifs.

One of the prominent attributes of Abeokuta, an ancient town in southwestern Nigeria, is its imposing architecture, with physical structures that have been standing for decades and reflecting a rich cultural history. Notably, many of these buildings exhibit Afro-Brazilian influences, showcasing a blend of traditional Yoruba and colonial architectural forms. This paper aims to classify the diverse architectural typology in Abeokuta and analyse their decorative motifs. Primary and secondary data were sourced using interviews and photographic-recording instruments. The study employed historical and formal analyses of the data. In the end, the history of Abeokuta and the factors that influenced its architectural evolution were explored, highlighting the cultural and historical significance of the forms and decorative motifs of the building structures. The study aims to contribute to a broader understanding of Abeokuta's architectural heritage typology, forms and decorative motifs, offering valuable insights into how historical and cultural dynamics are embedded in the city’s built environment.

History of bridge architecture to the XVIIIth century

Abstract. Problem. Bridge construction and the warehouse history development of lighting architecture and living technology. The contribution to the material from this diet was based on the close interconnection of the design and the artistic appearance of the material. The history of the bridge development construction is laid out in the context of the foreign cultural and technical level of the analyzed era. Knowledge of the architectural design basics expands the professional and secluded look of future fachists, the creative taste of art, encourages developers to create constructively and artistically valuable disputes. The goal is to conduct further research and analysis of the development of the place and the development of culture from ancient Greece and classical structures of the post-beam type, simplifying the process of building arch crypts in Starodav the new Roman power, bridges between Central Europe and Asia. Behind the era of the Revival of Italy and the end of the 16th century. Priishov Baroque style. Its characteristic features were the use of dynamic compositions and rich architectural decor. Soon the baroque will emerge in France, but will not expand widely here. Beginning from the middle of the 17th century, classicism became a panicky style in France. before the tendency to create facade compositions that are not directly related to the constructive side of disputes in England. The analysis shows that bridge projects in the 18th century. consist of engineers who were either architects or practical bridge builders. Methodology. Simultaneously carrying out an analysis of the development of the theoretical field of engineering knowledge. To achieve the goal, it is necessary to reveal the sequence of road infrastructure, look at the materials in the geometric variety of sizes of stone materials, and identify their influences in the development of structural bridge systems. Results. Based on a comprehensive look at the bridges built before the 18th century, the main stages in the development of the place were revealed. Regardless of the actual costs of human and financial resources, it is possible to demonstrate the reliability of everyday structures and ensure the reliability of the designed architectural forms today. Originality. Before carrying out structural analysis, we follow the designs and methods of building places of architectural styles that developed significantly under the influx of changes in the aesthetic views of the era. Practical value. The unity of constructive and artistic solutions has been revealed. Conducting primer analysis of the main style-creating disputes (palaces, cathedrals, villas), their formal and expansive warehouse architecture, which develops independently, poses in connection with the development of the structure. The trends of park art, of which park architecture and bridges have become a special sphere, are looming for further development.

How Do Building Materials Obtain Their Multiple Cultural Meanings Through Architecture

Building materials are transformed from ordinary objects into significant cultural symbols through the work of designers in architecture. The cultural significance embedded in these materials can be perceived through the buildings constructed from them. At present, most of the research on the meaning of materials is concentrated in the field of design, while most of the research on building materials stays on the discussion of the use of materials themselves. This article will analyze two representative buildings from different cultures and materials: the stone Sainte-Foy Church from medieval Europe and the wooden Hall of Supreme Harmony from Ming Dynasty China. By examining architectural structures, cultural backgrounds, and other relevant information, rich meanings associated with stone and wood can be derived. This analysis shows that building materials have been imbued with multiple cultural significance through thoughtfully designed architectural forms and their respective cultural contexts. This conclusion enhances the understanding of the important role of building materials in architecture and showcases the endless creativity of human society.

Impact of Built Environment on the Process of Psychological Treatment of Children and Youth

According to official surveys, the number of adolescents with mental health problems in Poland is increasing, which is also typical of other European countries. At the same time, programmes are being introduced to secure infrastructure and adequate therapeutic space by expanding or creating new, architecturally friendly centres. The comfort of the stay created by appropriate spatial conditions must be developed with the participation of the users (patients, staff and visitors). A qualitative study was carried out among staff, based on the structured interview method. The aim of the study was to diagnose the elements of architectural space that support health. It was hypothesised that the architecture of health care facilities could promote mental health. Using advances in environmental psychology, evidence-based design, and elements such as architectural form, spatial-functional layout and the surrounding environment were considered. The results of the study identified features of a user-friendly environment, creating a set of recommendations based on the research-by-design method. Consequently, the recommendations were implemented into the conceptual design. Their validity was proven using the example of the design of a health centre for young people in Klawa, Poland.

Dynamic Comfort Considerations in the Design of High-rise Buildings

<p>The following paper provides research analysis on the influence of wind on a building, considering the regional and local climate conditions, to improve dynamic stability and reduce wind disruption effects on high-rise reinforced concrete buildings. The main aspect of disturbance in living conditions is caused by wind loads on the building. The data is based on structural analysis, generated by the “Lira CAD 2013” ​​software, for a construction project of a 19-story residential building, completed in Georgia’s capital Tbilisi, 58 Kavtaradze St., in accordance with the given necessary requirements and restrictions by general terms and conditions of the Georgian state law. Computer aided modeling provides the ability to simulate and define parameters caused by the wind disruption on an actual site. Calculation process is based on variables specified by state law for each region of the country. Modified accelerations which have been caused by wind in multi-story, high-rise buildings have significantly greater values on upper floors, and reaching the edges ​​​​of the minimum living comfort criteria. The given study features the estimation for high-rise buildings under various combinations of loads. High-rise buildings have gone under significant restrictions due to use of conventional rigid frames as structural elements in the construction process. That process tends to develop a series of new research and findings for proper architectural forms, which became possible using the new generation of fast digital computing software and hardware.</p>

HETEROCHRONY OF GAUDI'S ARCHITECTURE

Today in the scientific literature there are active discussions about the architectural style of the Sagrada Familia Cathedral. Gaudi’s architecture is often referred to as organic or bionic. The presence of the bionic style in Gaudi’s architecture is supported by the fact that the Sagrada Familia has complex shapes, which are known today as helicoids, hyperboloids and hyperbolic paraboloids. Gaudi borrows these forms from nature and bases the construction of columns, vaults and other structural elements of the temple. However, the architectural image of the Sagrada Familia was also influenced by Gaudi’s existential experiences, which were the result of many factors. First of all, it is the emotional experiences of childhood. Other important factors in shaping the image of the Sagrada Familia were Catalan modernism, which emerged at the turn of the 19th – 20th centuries in Barcelona, the influence of German Expressionism, the interaction of contemporary Gaudi architects and the influence of Goethe’s philosophy on A. Gaudi. Goethe’s organic worldview, which was based on the understanding of the world as a living monadic whole, revolutionized not only philosophy but also architecture. The fundamental principle of the Sagrada Familia is a kind of proteism, the desire for constant renewal, expressed through both the interior and exterior of the building. The transformation of living integral formations, depicted on the three facades of the Sagrada Familia, demonstrates a series of metamorphoses of pra-phenomenon (Urphanomen – germ. after Goethe) and metamorphosis of the human soul under the influence of Christ’s teachings. Antonio Gaudi’s architecture is special for its emotional content, which hides the author’s emotional conflicts and contradictions. Opposing one to the natural environment and emphasizing harmonious coexistence with it is an oxymoron that the author laid down in the architectural forms of the Sagrada Familia. The Church of the Holy Family can be seen as a symbiosis of advanced technology and creative expression, the skill of presenting the author’s architectural ideas and happy coincidences. The artist's original vision and understanding of the relationship between the anthropogenic and natural environment in the creation of architectural space, the place and role of man in this process determined his exclusively individual architectural style.

Perancangan Rest Area Tipe A Pada Tol Bocimi Jawa Barat dengan Langgam Arsitektur Neo Vernakular

The design of the type a rest area on the bogor-cianjur-sukabumi toll road aims to provide rest and recreation facilities for toll road users as well as space for business people to develop their businesses. It is hoped that the existence of a transportation node, apart from accommodating its main function, can become a space to introduce the potential of the local area. The design refers to the neo-vernacular architectural approach, which is a conceptual approach in architectural design that places the local values of the local community combined with a technological approach to accommodate new functions. The discussion method is divided into several stages, including research on space requirements and environmental potential. The results of the discussion resulted in the idea that the neo vernacular concept was applied to building mass layout, choosing roof shapes and sundanese architectural forms.

Modernity and traditionalism in the sepulchral art of the Lychakiv Cemetery in Lviv. Tendencies, examples and artists

The article bears a character of initial research on the Art Deco style and modernism in the sepulchral art of the Lychakiv Cemetery in Lviv. A group of art objects chosen on the basis of stylistic criteria and high artistic and scientific values is presented.. Traditional research methods of art history such as formal, iconographic and iconological analyses were used due to the fact that research on the architectural and sculptural form of the sepulchres and tombs in the Lychakiv Cemetery are still in its initial stage. The research showed the variety of architectural trends in the sepulchral art of the first thirty years of the 20th century, starting from neoclassical tendencies, through Art Deco and so-called eastern Lesser Poland style, up to avant-gard modernism. It resulted in a distinction of a group of tombs in the Lychakiv Cemetery in Lviv representative for popular architectural trends of that time. The article points to the features and ideological base of those tendencies and presents the environment of Lviv artists – architects, sculptors, decorators and stonemasons, including a circle linked to Tadeusz Iwanowicz stone workshop, to which belonged, among others, Bronisław Wiktor and Wincenty Witold Rawski. The research led to a conclusion that the sepulchral art created in the Lychakiv Cemetery in Lviv in the first thirty years of the 20th century was a subject to intensive changes starting from neo-classicism, through Art Deco and eastern Lesser Poland style up to avant-garde modernism. All of this was caused not only by the dynamics of architecture development of this time, but also by fashion for specific forms. The development of sepulchral art was fostered by a high artistic awareness of its creators: stone workshop owners, architects, decorators and sculptors.

THE FORM OF AN ARCHITECTURAL OBJECT AND ITS INFLUENCE ON THE PSYCHOPHYSICAL FEATURES OF A PERSON

The article examines the influence of architectural forms on the psychophysical characteristics of a person in the conditions of urbanization. The article provides a thorough analysis of how the aesthetic and functional characteristics of architectural objects affect the emotional state and behavior of city residents; determination of key elements of the visual environment that affect the psychophysical state of a person; recommendations for the development of architectural solutions that would contribute to the improvement of the psycho-emotional state of people. The article shows that the geometric shape of an architectural object is one of the important architectural features that affect the psychophysiological reactions of people. Geometric shapes have dynamic properties that influence our perception and reinterpretation of the structure of the environment. Each shape can evoke different emotional responses and associations, shaping our sense of space. For example, round shapes are often associated with nature, peace and security, while straight angles can evoke a sense of order, but at the same time can be perceived as cold and unpleasant. These dynamic properties of shapes become even more significant in the context of architecture, where they can influence the everyday experience of the occupants. For example, open, flowing forms in the design of public spaces can encourage social interaction, facilitating movement and interaction between people, while rigid, geometrically defined structures can create feelings of isolation or discomfort. Research shows that the perception of forms also depends on the context of their use. Universal principles of perception, such as the law of proximity and the law of similarity, can influence how people group and interpret information about the environment. This indicates that not only individual figures, but also their interaction and composition can shape our perception of space. Thus, architects and designers have an important opportunity to consciously use geometric shapes to create environments that affect the psycho-emotional state of people. Therefore, taking into account the dynamic properties of forms not only significantly improves the aesthetic appearance of architectural objects, but can also significantly improve the quality of life of city residents, providing comfort and a positive emotional background in everyday life.

The St. Mary Magdalene School in Wrocław project by Valentin von Saebisch that was never built

Valentin von Saebisch (1578–1657) is known in the history of Wrocław mainly as a city fortifier. However, in addition to attending to the city’s defences, he was also active there in the field of civil architecture. The aim of the article is to expand knowledge of Saebisch’s design commitment responding to the needs of Wrocław. The analysis performed relates to four drawings that can be dated to the period 1616–1618, comprehensively depicting the design of a grand building. The architectural forms proposed by Saebisch are distinguished by a stylistic language typical of him yet isolated in Silesia, characteristic of the elite architectural foundations developed in the Rudolphine architectural circle. The specificity of the faithfully portrayed details makes it possible to identify the drawing as an unrealised design for the St. Mary Magdalene School in the location to which the institution’s building was moved in the 18th century. Thus, Saebisch’s identified project is a valuable source for research into the architecture of Wrocław at the dawn of the Thirty Years’ War, as well as the non-fortification activities that this architect carried out to meet the city’s needs.