Gateway Pavilion : returning to conventional practice

Abstract

The design and production of architecture is being heavily influenced by software, both positively and negatively. On the one side, it can be seen to provide new design opportunities while on the other it can create unexpected constraints. It is attractive and easy to generate complex digital forms however to realise it may seem overwhelming.

This is reflected in architects constantly developing complex digital forms but they are seldom translated into production. Articles suggest students can work with digital software without much consideration of tolerance for manufacturing, however project and material realities say otherwise. When an appropriate workflow is applied, the making process is not as complicated as many are led to believe. The Gateway Pavilion on Waiheke Island reveals pedagogical requirements to teach students essential skills to produce complex designs with a practical build process. This paper is a case study reviewing the alternate route taken when digital fabrication is no longer an option.