Geometric Aggregates- Islamic Pattern Art in Architecture

I wanted to explore the process of mathematical design through geometry and study the history of Islamic motifs and patterns in architectural practices. In this project, I applied these geometric patterns to a design for a modern building, a mix of contemporary and classic elements.

Revit

Twinmotion

Originating from the 9th century, Islamic Architecture utilized intricate patterns for artistic design as well as structural mechanics for stability and strength, in large-scale buildings and projects.

These designs usually followed mathematical formulas of geometric forms for the accuracy of measurement and distribution of weight. Lattices, muquarnas, and squinches were among some of the elements that enabled wide high-rise structures to be built.

The application of these buildings was essentially layered geometry.

While the 2D designs would adorn walls and ceilings of these buildings, stacking the different polygonal shapes and connecting them at joints and corners towards the inward weight would define the shape and structure.

Opening a new Revit file, I went to Architecture > Model Line > Hidden Line

Following the research inspiration, I used Hidden Lines to create the reference lines for my design

The sketch follows the center circle as the base for the lines, divided through angles, and the smaller circles are the basis for the lines that surround it at about 22.5 degrees rotation for each (as shown in the close-up image).

I changed Model Line Style to regular <Lines> to start the design of the base geometry.

Following the reference hidden lines, I went over them on a new level (L2) to create hexagonal and triangular patterns for my final base design.

Then I removed the hidden lines through properties < visibility

Grouping the designs based on how I wanted them extruded, I layered them by creating new Levels and adding them to each.

Next, through Architectural < Architectural Walls, I added walls by following the lines of geometry.

Following the walls, I also added roofing/ceiling for the different layers.

This part can be experimental, exploring inward and outward folds for vaulting and the structure of the building.

To create the dome, I created a separate component, new < revit file < conceptual mass

Using the radius of the center circle as the base and height, I created a dome with Modify > Create Form > Solid Form

After the base dome, I created the design through editing it, modify < pattern < divided surface pattern < romboid

I integrated it back into the original project by adding it as a <component>

For the triangular extrusion, I turned them into windows by using glass exterior glazing material.

For the dome, I edited the massing component to add a glass texture and metal facade structure.

Using Twinmotion's materials and tools, I added a landscape with grass and trees, as well as lighting and glass visibility adjustments for renders of the exterior and interior of the building.

I wanted to demonstrate the final piece as a modern minimalist space for mixed-use purposes as well as an homage to the history of architecture, where, before computer-accurate software, the ingenuity of geometric sketches produced exceptional structures built upon a hidden framework of lines and circles.